Pears For Fall

This Thanksgiving try bringing a dessert to the table that is different, flavorful and full of nutrients! Pears are a sweet, juicy fruit once called "the gift of the gods". They are perfect for fall desserts.

Nutrient Content:
Pears are a good source of fiber (4 grams/pear), vitamin C (6.64 mg or 11% of DV), Copper (9%).

Common Varieties:
In the US the most common varieties are Bosc, Anjou and Comice pears.

Storage:
When you buy them they should be firm, but not too hard. They are unripe at this point. Bring them home and let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. If you want to slow this process down, simply leave them at room temperature in a paper bag. When they ripen they will be at their peak of juiciness, but most importantly, they will have their highest antioxidant level at this point as well! Perfect for warding of cancer and boosting your immunity.

Here are a few recipes from Eating Well for baked pears. Why not have your dessert and feel good about it too!!

ROASTED PEARS:
Roasted pears are a simple dessert on their own, or top with lightly sweetened mascarpone for a more decadent treat.
Makes 4 servings
ACTIVE TIME: 10 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 35 minutes
EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy
2-3 pears (about 1 pound)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons sugar

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. 2. Peel, core and cut pears into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Toss the pear slices with lemon juice in a large bowl; add sugar and toss once again. Transfer to a baking pan large enough to hold the slices in a single layer. Roast, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until the pears are tender and golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 84 calories; 1 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 22 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 3 g fiber; 0 mg sodium; 5 mg potassium.1 1/2 Carbohydrate Servings

POACHED PEARS:
1. 4 Bosc pears
2. 2 cups fruit juice (use a cranberry-based juice for the added flavor)
3. 3/4 cup sugar
4. dash of lemon juice
Simmer fruit juice, sugar and lemon juice in a heavy saucepan. Peel and core the pears and cut into slices. Place sliced pears into the poaching liquid. Simmer uncovered over low heat for 20 minutes or until pears are tender. You can cool this in the refrigerator and serve cold, or serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt.

7-Day Goal: How can I satisfy my sweet tooth today without feeling like I overdid it? Maybe try a fruit dessert or break off a small piece of dark chocolate. Both will leave you satisfied and provide antioxidants!!
~K