Pizza with Caramelized Leeks, Grilled Pears, and Blue Cheese

Wow. Seriously. This pizza is amazing. Awhile ago, Mindy posted this recipe and I filed it away, meaning to try it later. While going through my files, I pulled it out and decided to make it. I made a few changes, including grilling the pears, and the end result is absolutely fantastic. The combination of flavors is exceptional, and the grilled pears add a lovely smoky sweetness to it.

Make a full size pizza, or this would be elegant served as individual pies. Feel free to use your own crust, or cheat and use a prepared one. The best part about this pizza is it is extremely easy to make, and will take about 20 minutes from start to finish.

*This is also my entry in the Weekend Herb Blogging Round-up, being hosted by Cate over at Sweetnicks this week. Check it out for some other great recipes!*



Caramelized Leek, Grilled Pear, and Blue Cheese Pizza
1 12" pre-made pizza crust (or 4 individual pies)
4 leeks
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp italian seasoning
1/4 tsp sea salt
1 tbsp dry vermouth
1 bosc pear
1 tbsp lemon juice
4 oz blue cheese

Preheat broiler. Cut off roots and dark green leaves of leeks. Cut leeks in half lengthwise and wash thoroughly to remove all grit. Slice into 1/4" thick slices. Melt butter in a small saucepan. Add leeks, italian seasoning, and salt, and cook leeks 6-8 minutes, until tender. Add dry vermouth and cook, stirring constantly, until vermouth has evaporated. Remove from heat.
Slice pear into 1/4" slices, removing core. Toss with lemon juice. Grill either with a grill pan heated over high heat sprayed with cooking spray, or on a gas grill. Grill 2-3 minutes each side. Remove from heat.
Spread a thin layer of olive oil on prepared crust. Spread cooked leeks on crust to within 1" of edge. Layer grilled pears on top, and sprinkle blue cheese as the final layer. Place under broiler for 5-6 minutes, until cheese and crust have started to brown. Serve immediately.