How to Use Pears in Sweet and Savory Recipes
How to Use Pears in Sweet and Savory Recipes
December is National Pear Month - a great time to celebrate and try them in new ways.
Why December is National Pear Month
December is the prime time to celebrate pears, as many varieties peak during late fall and early winter. Pears have been cultivated for over 4,000 years, making them one of the world’s oldest cultivated fruits. With their wide variety of textures and flavors, pears have become a holiday staple, perfect for festive dishes and cozy winter recipes.
Pear Trivia
Variety: There are over 3,000 pear varieties worldwide, with popular ones like Bartlett, Bosc, and Anjou available in most grocery stores.
Symbolism: Pears symbolize wisdom and health in many cultures.
Longevity: Pear trees can live over 100 years, making them a symbol of endurance.
Nutritional Benefits of Pears
Pears are more than just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrition:
High in Fiber: One medium pear provides 6 grams of fiber, about 20% of your daily needs.
Rich in Vitamins: Pears are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health, and vitamin K, important for bone health.
Low in Calories: At only about 100 calories per medium pear, they’re a great choice for a nutrient-dense snack.
Hydrating: With over 80% water content (most of which goes down your arm while eating), pears help with hydration.
How to Select and Store Pears
Selecting: Choose firm but slightly soft pears around the stem for ripeness. Avoid pears with bruises or blemishes.
Ripening: If your pears aren’t ripe, leave them at room temperature until they soften. Placing them near bananas or apples can speed up the ripening process.
Storing: Once ripe, store pears in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness.
Four Simple Pear Recipes
SWEET RECIPES
Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey
Ingredients:
2 medium pears, halved and cored
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange pear halves in a baking dish. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender. Top with walnuts before serving.
Nutrition (per serving): 90 calories, 0.5g fat, 23g carbs, 4g fiber, 1g protein
Pear and Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Ingredients:
1 medium pear, diced
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/4 cup granola
Instructions: Layer Greek yogurt, diced pears, maple syrup, and granola in a glass. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Nutrition (per serving): 180 calories, 3g fat, 29g carbs, 5g fiber, 8g protein
SAVORY RECIPES
Pear and Goat Cheese Salad
Ingredients:
2 cups mixed greens
1 medium pear, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 tbsp chopped pecans
1 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions: Toss mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette. Top with sliced pears, goat cheese, and pecans.
Nutrition (per serving): 150 calories, 9g fat, 14g carbs, 3g fiber, 4g protein
Pear and Prosciutto Flatbread
Ingredients:
1 whole-grain flatbread
1/2 medium pear, thinly sliced
2 slices prosciutto
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp olive oil
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush flatbread with olive oil—layer with pear slices, prosciutto, and mozzarella. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts.
Nutrition (per serving): 220 calories, 9g fat, 24g carbs, 3g fiber, 10g protein
Enjoy Seasonal Pears
Pears are versatile additions to your winter menu, whether sweet or savory. Their subtle sweetness pairs well with warming spices like cinnamon or complements salty flavors like cheese and prosciutto. Add pears to your cart this month and enjoy their unique ability to enhance any dish while adding to your nutrition.
