Pear

Pears are a delicious and versatile fruit, known for their sweet, slightly tangy flavor and juicy, smooth texture. Ranging in color from green and yellow to red and brown, pears offer a subtly granular texture near the core. Explore the culinary possibilities with this exceptional fruit, whether enjoying a crisp, ripe pear on its own or incorporating it into both sweet and savory dishes. Discover the many varieties of pears available and learn how to select, store, and prepare these wonderful fruits for optimal flavor and enjoyment. When searching for fresh pear recipes or information on pear nutrition, remember that the quality and ripeness of the pear will greatly influence your dish's final outcome.

Fruit Fresh Produce Pome Fruit

Common Uses

Enjoy sliced fresh pears as a healthy and satisfying snack, adding them to lunchboxes or serving them with cheese and crackers for a quick appetizer. The natural sweetness and slightly grainy texture of a ripe pear pairs wonderfully with both soft and hard cheeses.
Bake pears into pies, tarts, crumbles, and cakes for a comforting and flavorful dessert. Consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the pear's natural sweetness in these baked goods. Experiment with different pear varieties to discover which ones you prefer for baking.
Poach pears in red wine, white wine, or spiced syrup for an elegant and sophisticated dessert. Poached pears are beautiful when served with a dollop of whipped cream, mascarpone, or crème fraîche. The poaching liquid can also be reduced into a flavorful sauce.
Add diced pears to salads for a touch of sweetness and texture. Pears complement leafy greens, walnuts, blue cheese, and vinaigrette dressings particularly well. This is a delightful way to incorporate fresh fruit into a healthy meal.
Make pear sauce or chutney as a flavorful accompaniment to roasted meats, poultry, or cheese. The sweetness of the pears balances the savory flavors of the main course, adding depth and complexity to the meal. Consider adding herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or ginger to the pear sauce or chutney.
Grill pears for a smoky-sweet flavor that pairs well with grilled meats or as a topping for salads. Brush the pear slices with a little oil or honey before grilling to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization. Grilled pears can also be served as a simple yet elegant dessert.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

103.0kcal (5.15%)

Protein

0.7g (1.42%)

Carbs

27.4g (9.96%)

Sugars

17.4g (34.8%)

Healthy Fat

0.2g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Contains antioxidants, which help protect against cellular damage and reduce inflammation.
May help regulate blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index.
Supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.
Contributes to hydration with its high water content.

Substitutes

Fig

Storage Tips

Pears are best stored depending on their ripeness. Unripe pears should be kept at room temperature until they ripen, which can be accelerated by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana. Once ripe, store pears in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness for up to 5-7 days. Avoid storing pears near strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors.