Pear Perfection

When the air turns crisp and leaves start changing colors, everyone talks about apples. Don’t get me wrong; I love apples, too, but pears are an unsung hero that deserve a little attention as well! Deliciously sweet, juicy, and versatile in the kitchen, pears are a wonderful way to welcome fall. Here are a few sweet and savory ways to feature pears on your menu this season.

Roquefort & Pear Flatbread
Pear and blue cheese are a sweet and tangy combination that bring this recipe to life. Whether your serving this flatbread as an appetizer or dinner, it’s sure to please. If you’re feeling ambitious, use your favorite homemade pizza crust recipe instead of store-bought.

Caramelized Bacon Gnocchi Mac & Cheese
Pear adds just the right amount of sweetness to this cheesy update on macaroni & cheese. Using gnocchi instead of pasta, and, of course, adding bacon, creates a hearty dish ideal for the changing weather. Serve with a simple greens salad for dinner.

Pear & Cream Cheese Bars
Oatmeal cookie crust, sweetened cream cheese and fresh pears combine for a bar that would be a hit at bake sales or last-chance picnic.

Pear Upside-Down Snack Cake
Pears lend themselves to an upside-down cake, as they add just the right amount of moistness to create a tender cake. Top with slightly sweetened whipped cream, and you have a dessert that will get thumbs-up from around the table!
This fall before you fill your house with apple goodies give pears a try! And be sure to let us know what you create!