Growing up in central New Jersey, I loved to eat the fresh fruit from the two pear trees my family grew in our backyard. I found it special that we had the chance to grow these healthy treats at home. Though I didn’t know it at the time, pears grow commercially in almost all 50 U.S. states, and are even the state fruit of Oregon. Even so, anyone who’s ever eaten a fresh, juicy pear knows they’re rather delicate and don’t always travel well.
Canned pears are an easy solution to this. When canned, pears retain their tastiness and offer a portable, cost-effective and healthy solution in the off-season. Pears are also very versatile. In our latest infographic from MyPlate’s “5 Ways” series – which features recipes from USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – you can check out creative and low-cost ways to incorporate them in meals. Options include pears canned in water or 100 percent fruit juice.
- Produce-Packed Goodness: Pear Salad
Need to eat more fruits and veggies? (Who doesn’t?) Try this healthy and delicious salad to get you closer to your goal. A lot of good stuff is packed in this recipe! - A Twist on a Classic: Pear Quesadilla
This sweet and savory take on the classic quesadilla is a creative way to add more fruit to your day. Try this recipe for a quick and easy lunch. - The Sweet and Savory: Cobb Salad with Pears
This meal requires no cooking and is another sweet and savory combo that is sure to please. - Mix, Scoop and Enjoy: Pear Party Salsa
This is a great snack and adds a little twist to traditional salsa made with tomatoes and onions. - A Pear-y Delicious Dessert: Frozen Pear Pops
With just three ingredients, this simple dessert is low-cost and super easy. And, yeah, these pops are delicious!
The other “5 Ways” infographics – including Canned Peaches, Frozen Broccoli, Berries, Yogurt, and more – are available at www.choosemyplate.gov/resources/infographics/5-ways-series. For more information about foods that grow in your state, visit our MyPlate, MyState page.
Learn more about the Fruit Group at choosemyplate.gov. Follow @MyPlate on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, and sign up for MyPlate email updates at choosemyplate.gov/govdelivery.
