Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie High Fiber

Pear

Pyrus communis Allergen-Free
pear

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rosaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Late Summer - Fall
  • Source Pear tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The elegantly understated fruit, offering a delicate sweetness and intriguing granular texture that excels in both rustic and refined dishes."

Definition

A sweet, bell-shaped fruit with a soft, buttery, and often gritty flesh, cultivated and enjoyed worldwide.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Fruity, Mildly Tart
TextureJuicy, Gritty, Soft, Buttery
AromaSweet, Floral, Aromatic
AcidityLow-Medium

Technical Metrics

Fiber Content

Good source of dietary fiber

Ripening Method

Ripens best off the tree

Storage Tip

Store unripe at room temp; ripe in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Per 178g
Calories57
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.4g
Total Carbohydrate15g
Dietary Fiber3.1g
Total Sugars9.7g
Calcium9mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium116mg

Chef’s Secret

Pears ripen best off the tree. To speed up ripening, place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana. Chill once ripe.

Substitutions

Best Match

Apple

1:1

Similar sweetness, firmer texture, widely available

Quince

1:1

More tart, needs cooking, but similar form in cooked dishes

Canned Pears

1:1

Softer texture, often in syrup, for cooked/dessert uses

Cooked Dried Apricots

1:1

Different fruit, but provides sweetness and soft texture in baked goods

Buying Guide

Choose firm pears and allow them to ripen at room temperature. Check for fragrance at the stem end to indicate ripeness.

Flavor Pairings

Cheese walnuts blue cheese salads pork chicken cinnamon vanilla.

Recipes Using Pear

Occasion Preparation Seasonal Taste Mood

Almond Pear Tart

This show-stopping Almond Pear Tart, inspired by Southern Living, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfect for Easter dinner or any special occasion, this surprisingly easy recipe boasts a buttery almond filling and perfectly spiced pears. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation Low In Something Preparation Low Protein

Almond Topped Pear Pie

This adopted recipe for Almond-Topped Pear Pie is a delicious fall dessert featuring juicy pears baked to perfection under a crunchy almond topping. Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this recipe perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible pie!

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Course Course Nuts Pears

Amaretto Pear Parfaits

Indulge in these elegant Amaretto Pear Parfaits! Juicy Bosc pears (or sweet peaches!) are perfectly paired with the rich almond flavor of amaretto in this delightful layered dessert. Creamy yogurt adds a light and refreshing touch. This recipe is inspired by Cooking Light, offering a sophisticated yet easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your guests with this stunning and delicious parfait!

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4 Hours Or Less Cobblers And Crisps Time To Make Low Fat

Apple And Pear Crumble

This irresistible Apple and Pear Crumble recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Adapted from the new Vegetarian Epicure, this versatile dessert shines with its classic apple and pear combination, but easily accommodates other fruits like berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherries). Using simple ingredients you likely already have, this easy dessert comes together quickly for a warm and comforting treat. Perfect for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion, get ready to enjoy a perfectly crisp crumble topping over juicy, spiced fruit filling.

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Preparation Taste Mood Preparation Low Fat

Apple Pear Crisp 3 Ww Points

This Apple Pear Crisp is a Thanksgiving hit! Imagine warm, tender apples and pears nestled under a perfectly crunchy, buttery topping. A delightful fall dessert that's both comforting and guilt-free (only 3 WW Points!). This recipe uses approximately 3 pounds of your favorite fall fruit – get creative with different apple and pear varieties! A perfect way to celebrate the autumn harvest.

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Side Dishes Vegetables Fruit Low Cholesterol

Apple Pear Cucumber Salad

This vibrant salad is a delightful mix of sweet apples, juicy pears, and crisp cucumbers, tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. The whole grain mustard and apple cider vinegar create a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the fresh produce. A quick and easy recipe, perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Get ready for a crunchy, sweet, and tangy experience!

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Fruit Time To Make Lettuces Dietary

Apple Pear Salad With Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

A light and refreshing Apple Pear Salad, perfect as a starter or a light lunch! This recipe, adapted from Southern Living magazine (March 2007), is bursting with fresh flavors and a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing. Easy to make in under 15 minutes, it's the ideal healthy and delicious meal option.

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Desserts Time To Make Pears Fruit

Aunt Miggies Pear Cake

A treasured family recipe passed down through generations, Aunt Miggie's Pear Cake is a moist and delicious treat. Originally published in a local newspaper, this recipe evokes the warmth of home-baking and cherished memories. The simple batter, made entirely by hand, bakes into a tender cake perfect for any occasion. Top with the creamy, dreamy cream cheese icing (or enjoy it plain!) for an unforgettable dessert.

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15 Minutes Or Less Lettuces Course Vegetables

Autumn Chopped Salad

Crisp lettuce, juicy pears, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and salty bacon tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette (recipe #475073 recommended!). This vibrant Autumn Chopped Salad is the perfect light yet satisfying meal or side dish for your fall gatherings. Easy to make in just 15 minutes!

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Low Sodium Healthy Oven Cakes

Autumn Pear Apple Pudding Cake

This easy and wildly popular recipe puts a delicious twist on classic pudding cake! Featuring juicy pears (or apples!), warm spices, and a melt-in-your-mouth topping, this dessert disappears faster than you can say 'pumpkin spice'. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Pears Potluck Course Seasonal

Autumn Pear Bread

Capture the essence of fall with this irresistible Autumn Pear Bread! This moist and flavorful loaf cake is bursting with the sweet taste of ripe pears and warm spices. Perfect for a cozy autumn afternoon or as a delightful Thanksgiving treat, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and juicy pears baked to golden perfection.

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For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings Time To Make Salads

Baby Greens With Pears Gorgonzola And Pecans

A delightful salad featuring tender baby greens, sweet ripe pears, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans. The honey mustard dressing perfectly complements the mix of textures and flavors. This elegant yet easy-to-make salad is the perfect side dish for pork or chicken, or a light and satisfying lunch on its own! #saladrecipe #pearsalad #gorgonzola #pecans #honeymustard #easyrecipe #dinnerside #lunchrecipe

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Preparation Easy 15 Minutes Or Less Course

Baby Greens Pear Walnut And Blue Cheese Salad

A delightful and elegant salad, perfect for book club or a special dinner! This recipe combines the freshness of baby greens with the sweetness of pears, the crunch of walnuts, and the tang of blue cheese for a flavor explosion in your mouth. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

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Course Dinner Party Time To Make To Go

Baby Spinach Pear And Walnut Salad

A vibrant and delicious salad featuring sweet Corella pears, crunchy walnuts, and tender baby spinach. This refreshing side dish is visually stunning and pairs perfectly with any main course – from grilled meats to pasta dishes and rice bowls. Inspired by a recipe from the latest issue of Australian 'New Idea' magazine, this updated version specifies Corella pears for the best flavor and texture. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make salad!

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Main Ingredient Healthy Vegetarian Desserts

Baked Pears With Orange Cinnamon Sauce

Indulge in the cozy, festive flavors of Christmas with this irresistible Baked Pears with Warm Orange-Cinnamon Sauce recipe! Perfectly spiced pears baked to tender perfection, then drizzled with a luscious orange-cinnamon sauce – a delightful dessert any time of year. Easily doubled for a crowd-pleasing treat. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Preparation Main Ingredient Kid Friendly Cuisine

Banana Pear Bread With Dates

This unbelievably moist and delicious banana pear bread is a game-changer! I ran short on ingredients for my usual banana bread, but this happy accident resulted in a family favorite. The combination of sweet bananas, juicy pears, and chewy dates creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this recipe is easy to follow and always delivers exceptional results. Get ready to impress your loved ones!

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Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less Easy Eggs Dairy

Best Pear And Almond Salad Low Cal

Craving a delicious pear and almond salad without the guilt? This recipe is a game-changer! I've taken the classic pear and walnut salad and made it lighter and even more flavorful. Enjoy a refreshing, low-calorie treat perfect for a light lunch, healthy snack, or side dish. This 5-minute recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh taste!

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Occasion Meat Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Heirloom Historical

L Ham Lahlou Algerian North African Sweet Lamb Dish

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of L Ham Lahlou, a traditional Algerian dessert lamb dish perfect for Ramadan, special occasions, or any time you crave a unique culinary experience. This recipe, passed down through generations, features tender lamb infused with warm spices and sweet fruits. While traditionally served as a delightful after-dinner treat, its rich and satisfying taste makes it a memorable addition to any meal. Easily adaptable to your preferences, you can experiment with various fruits to create your signature version. This recipe freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying individual portions later. Discover the magic of this North African treasure and prepare for a taste sensation!

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