Sweet meets savory: Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette
A perfect “pearing”!
I’ve always loved a good mash-up of flavors. The combination of sweet and savory is one of my all-time favorites—like caramel corn with a sprinkling of salt or buttercream frosting that has just a hint of saltiness. There’s something magical about how contrasting flavors come together to create balance and complexity in a dish. It’s that same magic that inspired this Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette.
The Secret’s in the Pear and Onion
Picture this: a buttery and flaky gluten-free pastry crust layered with caramelized onions as the base. Then, it’s topped with crumbled goat cheese and crispy pancetta for a salty punch. Finally, slices of ripe, sweet pear are added to bring everything together in perfect harmony. For this galette, I chose Bosc pears because they’re not only sweet when ripe but also firm enough to hold their shape during baking. They provide just the right texture—soft but not mushy—and their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory onions and tangy goat cheese. It’s a simple yet magical combination that feels both rustic and refined.
What Makes This Galette Work?
This galette came together because it felt like the perfect dish for this time of year. Pears are in season, and their natural sweetness complements the warm, savory flavors of caramelized onions and pancetta so well. Plus, I had some leftover pears sitting on my counter, and I couldn’t let them go to waste! There’s something comforting about making a dish inspired by what you already have on hand—it feels resourceful yet creative. This galette is warm, hearty, and satisfying, making it ideal for cozy winter brunches or dinners.
Making Kitchen Memories
As I enjoy this galette, I’m struck by how a few humble ingredients can come together to create something so memorable. Sweet pears meet savory onions in a way that feels unexpected but completely natural. The flaky crust ties it all together, making each bite satisfying and full of flavor. It’s not just a dish—it’s an experience that reminds me why I love cooking and sharing recipes.
Unlock Culinary Magic: Start with This Galette
This galette is truly alchemy in your kitchen. It transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary—a dish that’s as delicious as it is versatile. So roll up your sleeves and give it a try this week! Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette is bound to impress.
Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette Ingredients
These ingredients come together to create a Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette that’s both flavorful and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Gluten-Free Dough
- Follow the instructions found here for my gluten free pie dough recipe.
Egg Yolk (for egg wash)
- An egg yolk mixed with a bit of water creates an egg wash. It’s brushed onto the galette’s edges before baking to give the crust a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish.
Olive Oil
- Use olive oil to sauté and caramelize the onions. It adds a subtle fruity and earthy flavor to the dish and helps soften and sweeten the onions.
Unsalted Butter
- Unsalted butter lends a creamy and rich quality to the caramelized onions. As it melts and combines with the natural sugars in the onions, it creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying.
Onions
- Use sliced and caramelized to bring a sweet, rich, and savory flavor to the galette. The slow cooking process turns them soft and golden brown, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Thyme, Sage, or Herbs de Provence
- Aromatic herbs are a wonderful addition, providing a burst of flavor and aroma. Thyme is earthy, and slightly lemony note. Sage is warm, and savory. Herbs de Provence is a blend of herbs like rosemary, marjoram, and lavender, offering a fragrant and harmonious flavor profile. When caramelized with the onions, they infuse a rich, savory essence that elevates the overall taste of the galette. Sprinkling some fresh herbs on top of the assembled galette enhances its visual appeal and introduces a pop of freshness.
Pears
- Choose ripe but firm pears (such as D’Anjou, Bosc or Bartlett) for this recipe. Their texture holds up well during baking while absorbing the flavors of caramel and spices.
Goat Cheese
- A soft cheese known for its creamy texture and mild tangy flavor–goat cheese melts beautifully and enhances dishes like galettes, omelettes and gratins. It balances perfectly with the pear, caramelized onion, and pancetta in this galette.
Pancetta
- Pancetta is a rich, flavorful Italian cured meat that brings depth and complexity to the galette. Unlike American bacon, pancetta is salt-cured but not smoked, offering a more concentrated pork flavor. When crisped, it provides a delightful textural contrast to the softened pears and creamy goat cheese. Its salty, umami-rich profile enhances the natural sweetness of the caramelized onions and pears, creating a more complex and satisfying dish. Diced and rendered until crisp, pancetta adds a luxurious, savory element that elevates the entire galette from simple to extraordinary.
Salt and Pepper:
- Salt and pepper are common seasonings used to enhance the overall flavor of the galette. They add a necessary savory element to balance the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette Equipment
You’ll need the following equipment to prepare the Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette recipe. Make sure to have them ready before you start cooking for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Food Processor (optional)
- A food processor is handy for making the gluten-free dough quickly and efficiently. However, you can also mix the dough by hand if you don’t have a food processor.
Rolling Pin
- You’ll need a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a circle of the desired size. This will help create the crust for your galette.
Mixing Bowls
- Use mixing bowls to combine and mix various ingredients throughout the recipe, including the dough and filling components.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Measuring cups are essential for accurately measuring ingredients like flour, water, and crumbled cheese. Measuring spoons help you measure smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, xanthan gum, and herbs.
Skillet
- Use a skillet or frying pan to caramelize the onions. You’ll use it to melt butter, cook the onions until they become soft and caramelized, and add herbs for flavor.
Rimmed Baking Sheet
- A rimmed baking sheet is essential for baking the galette in the oven. It provides a flat surface for the galette to cook evenly.
Parchment Paper
- I use parchment paper is to line the baking sheet and prevent the galette from sticking. It also makes it easier to transfer the galette in and out of the oven.
Oven
- You’ll use a conventional oven to bake the galette to perfection.
Knife and Cutting Board:
- You’ll need a knife and cutting board to thinly slice the pears and onions.
Fork
- A fork is a great tool to crumble goat cheese.
Cooling Rack (Optional)
- Use a rack to help cool the galette evenly once you remove from the oven. Just don’t place a hot pan directly on a heat sensitive counter.
Pastry Brush (Optional)
- Use a pastry brush to apply the egg yolk wash to the edges of the galette for a golden finish. You can also use a clean brush or your fingers for this step.
Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette Substitutions
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or personal preferences when making substitutions. The key is to adapt the recipe to your needs while still maintaining the overall structure and flavors of the galette. Enjoy your customized Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette!
Xanthan Gum
- Gluten free flour blends don’t bind together like a traditional wheat based flour. That’s why I use xanthan gum to hold the dough together. If your gluten-free flour mix contains xanthan gum, you can omit it from the recipe. If you choose to use a recipe that does not contain xanthan gum, the dough will be much more fragile without it, so handle it carefully.
Unsalted Butter
- If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute cold dairy-free margarine or a vegan butter alternative for the unsalted butter. Make sure it’s cold and solid when you use it. Additionally, if you don’t have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, just reduce the salt in the dough by ½.
Cheese
- If you prefer a different cheese or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute any other mild, meltable cheeses like Fromage Blanc, Camembert, or even Ricotta Cheese. Or you can use dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan. Of course you can make this recipe without cheese, however eliminating the cheese will definitely change the flavor of the dish.
Olive Oil
- If you don’t have olive oil or prefer a different flavor, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. My go-to when I don’t want to use olive oil is avocado oil as it has a neutral flavor, high heating temperature and is heart healthy.
Onions and Garlic
- If you’re not a fan of onions, or have dietary restrictions, you can eliminate altogether, or you can use shallots, leeks, or scallions as a substitute. They will provide a similar caramelized flavor.
Pears
- Replace with apples or stone fruits like peaches if pears aren’t available.
Pancetta
- If you cannot find pancetta, the easiest substitution is bacon. Or if you are vegetarian or vegan, simply eliminate the pancetta from the recipe. Additionally to mimic the saltiness of the pancetta you can substitute olives for both salitness and texture.
Egg Yolk (for egg wash)
- If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, you can use dairy-free milk, like almond or soy milk, as a wash to give the crust a golden color.
Seasonings
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to enhance the flavor.
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette?
The Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful meal. However, if you’d like to enhance the dining experience and create a well-rounded meal, here are some serving suggestions and side dishes that pair well with it. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your preferences and the occasion.
Mixed Green Salad
- A simple salad with fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing can complement the savory flavors of the galette and provide a refreshing contrast. Or, instead of just a simple mixed green salad, consider adding roasted nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can also enhance the salad, making it more substantial.
Quinoa Salad
- A quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and a citrus vinaigrette can add a nutritious and colorful touch. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the savory galette, while the fresh vegetables provide a delightful crunch.
Sausage
- If you don’t want to go vegetarian for your meal, you can serve a variety of sausages with the galette, including smoked sausage, Italian sausage, chorizo, or Polish kielbasa.
Soup
- Serve a warm bowl of soup alongside the galette. Options like tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or a hearty vegetable soup can make for a satisfying meal combination.
Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, can be a great side dish. The caramelized flavors of roasted veggies harmonize well with the galette’s richness.
Fruit Salad
- A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus can provide a sweet contrast to the galette’s savory flavors.
Why will you love this savory Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette?
The Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette is a delightful dish that offers a rich blend of flavors, caters to dietary needs, and celebrates the season’s produce. It’s easy to make and its versatility make it a recipe that’s likely to be enjoyed everyone for its taste, appearance, and adaptability.
Delicious Flavor
- This Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette features a combination of flavors that work together seamlessly. The savory richness of pancetta perfectly complements the ripe pears. Meanwhile, the sweetness of caramelized onions adds depth and balance to the dish. Together, these ingredients create a mouthwatering and well-rounded flavor profile that is both satisfying and delicious.
Gluten-Free Option
- For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding delicious gluten-free recipes can be a challenge. This galette offers a gluten-free alternative to a classic pastry, allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge in a flavorful dish.
Versatility
- The recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can customize it by adding other vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. This flexibility allows for endless variations and experimentation.
Rustic Charm
- The galette’s rustic appearance and free-form shape add to its appeal. It’s an inviting and visually pleasing dish that feels cozy and comforting, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ease of Preparation
- While it looks impressive, making this galette is surprisingly straightforward. The step-by-step instructions provided in the recipe make it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
Perfect for Gatherings
- Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family meal, this galette can be a delightful centerpiece. It’s easy to serve, and its rustic charm makes it an excellent conversation starter.
Reheats Well
- Leftovers of this galette can be reheated and enjoyed the next day, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
Adaptable for Dietary Needs
- The recipe can be modified to suit various dietary preferences. You can make it dairy-free, vegan, or incorporate other dietary restrictions by choosing suitable substitutions.
Balanced and Satisfying
- With a combination of vegetables, cheese, and a flaky gluten-free crust, this galette offers a satisfying and balanced meal that’s both comforting and filling.
Seasonal Adaptability
- While the recipe features pears, it can easily be adapted to incorporate seasonal ingredients. This versatility allows you to enjoy variations throughout the year, keeping your meals fresh and exciting.
Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette
Description
Perfect as a main dish served with a salad or soup. Consider this as a great starter...or even a late-night snack. Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette is savory with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Gluten Free Dough
Au Gratin Potato Filling
Instructions
Prepare the Gluten-Free Crust
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Prepare a single gluten-free pie crust according to the recipe found here.
Caramelize the Onions
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
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Add the thinly sliced onions, herbs, salt and pepper (to taste), and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown and become caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Watch the heat to ensure you do not burn the onions. Lower the heat if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Pancetta and Goat cheese (While Caramelizing Onions)
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While the onions are caramelizing in the skillet…
- Rough chop the pancetta into ¼ inch pieces. Note - I like to start with pancetta that has been sliced thick - just over ¼”.
- Cook the pancetta until crispy in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to burn.
- Set aside the crisp pancetta on a paper towel lined plate to cool slightly before assembling the dish.
- Use a fork to crumble the goat cheese in a small bowl and set aside for assembly.
Assemble the Galette
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle, approximately 14 inches in diameter.
- Carefully transfer the dough to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. Note: The dough may hang over the edges of the pan, depending on the size of your baking sheet.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Leaving a 2-3 inch border around the edge, spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough.
- Next sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and crisp pancetta over the onions.
- Arrange the pear slices on top of the cheese and pancetta. You can place them randomly or in a starburst fashion.
- Scatter fresh thyme leaves over the top and lightly season with salt and pepper to taste.
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- Fold the edges of the dough over onto the filling.
- Brush the folded dough edges with cream or egg wash.
- Lightly season the folded edge with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
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- Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Slice, serve, and savor the flavors of the Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette.
This Gluten-Free Pear and Onion Galette is all about satisfying your cravings with ease. Its buttery, flaky crust pairs perfectly with the sweetness of caramelized onions, the savory richness of the goat cheese, pancetta and the sweet slices of pear.
Note
Gluten-Free Flours
When it comes to baking gluten-free, the type of flour you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your final product. Here are some important tips regarding gluten-free flours for your Gluten-Free Banana Muffins recipe:
1. Homemade Flour Blend
I use a custom gluten-free flour blend that I make myself, which weighs approximately 140 grams per cup. This blend typically includes a mix of gluten-free flours such as white and brown rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, sorghum and milk powder, providing a balanced texture and flavor for baking.
2. Store-Bought Gluten-Free Flours
If you prefer to use a store-bought gluten-free flour blend, it's crucial to check the packaging for the weight per cup, as this can vary between brands. Each manufacturer may have a different formulation, which affects the density and weight of their flour.
Here are several that are available from Amazon:
- King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten-Free Flour
- Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1 to 1 Baking Flour
- Cup4Cup Gluten Free Multipurpose Flour
None of these flours contain xanthan gum. So if your recipe calls for xanthan gum, omit the extra xanthan if using one of these these blends. All of the manufacturers promote these products as a one-to-one replacement.
Kosher Salt
You can use kosher salt in this recipe; however, the crystal of table salt and kosher salt are not the same. So a teaspoon of one is not the same as a teaspoon of the other. Here are equivalents for two commonly available kosher salt brands:
To Replace: 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 teaspoon diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton Kosher Salt
