Yummy and Different Ways to Eat Pears!

September is all about pears! When choosing pears, go for the ones that are smooth, bruise-free, and firm. An unripe pear’s skin is shiny, wheras a ripe one looks more matte. Pears usually take a couple days to ripen at home on the counter. Once they’re ripe make sure to store them in the fridge. We know, pears are one of those delicious fruits that are wonderful eaten raw, but here are some great ideas to incorporate pears into different meals.

1. Poached

via Cooking Light

Pears are delicious poached, but often contain lots of sugar. Try this lightened up version from Cooking Light.

2. As a savory side dish

Pears make a great accompaniment to pork and chicken. Try this tasty Gingered Pears and Parsnips side dish from the Food Network for an innovative dinner treat!

3. In a fall-inspired salad

via greenlitebites

Pears add sweetness to balance beets and goat cheese in this fall inspired salad via greenlitebites. Can stand alone on its own or accompany a protein for a heartier dinner.

4. As chips!

via Martha Stewart

Yes, you heard right CHIPS! This tasty recipe via Martha Stewart combines apples and pears for a tasty treat you can grab as a quick snack. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to inspire your taste buds.

5. As a zesty relish

via the Food Network

This easy relish via the Food Network comes together quickly and is a great addition to any meal. You could also preserve the relish for later use.

6. As a healthier appetizer

via Popsugar

This one is different and a really great twist on the typical crostini topper! Edamame meets pear in this recipe by Popsugar.

7. As an addition to pancakes

via Real Simple

Adding pears to pancakes adds fruit to breakfast in an easy way! Try this take on pancakes by Real Simple.

8. With quinoa

Via Gluten-free Goddess

Pears add a nice sweetness to this quinoa dish via Gluten-free Goddess. Quinoa can replace protein so this can be served as a light dinner on busy weeknights.

9. In a sandwich

via Cooking Light

Pears make a crunchy sweet addition to any sandwich! Check out this pear-walnut version from Cooking Light.

10. To balance out a soup

via Southern Living

This warm and comforting Red Pepper and Pear soup via Southern Living is a great way to incorporate fruits with veggies. Sweet and savory, it’s a great start to a Fall dinner.

What are your pear recipe ideas? We’d love to hear from you!