Summertime and the living is easy with picnics, barbecues and simple seasonal fare to enjoy al fresco.
Mother's Day, Father's Day, July 4th and Labor Day are all great excuses for celebrating in the sun, but any weekend will do. Canned pears help to make preparation a breeze and add sweetness to appetizers, entrees and dessert. Here are some new and "cool" ways to use them.
|
Ready-to-use-no washing, peeling or coring-canned pears are canned at the peak of ripeness and partner beautifully with cheese. Serve your cheese plate as an appetizer, dessert or as a picnic centerpiece.
For the ultimate summer cheese plate, concentrate on light and bright flavors that fit with the season. Many goat and fresh sheep's milk cheeses are at their peak in Summer. Try these seasonal favorites: These cheeses will be delicious with canned pears, fresh grapes and a selection of crackers or sliced baguette. Serve with a crisp Rosé, Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc.
|
Sweet and savory grilled kebabs are a welcome change of pace from the usual burgers and hot dogs. Combine pears with chicken and a zesty barbecue sauce in this recipe for Barbecued Pear and Chicken Kebabs.
The mild sweetness of pears is a great complement to savory grilled sausages or pork chops. Simply brush the grill with oil and grill pear halves for a few minutes and serve as a side dish.
|
For another last minute, no-cook dessert that's light and flavorful, stir together a pear and berry salad. Sweet canned pears balance out even slightly sour berries and provide a stunning contrast in color in and texture.
Cut four canned pear halves into cubes and combine with one cup of blue fruit such as blackberries or blueberries, and one cup of red berries, such as strawberries or raspberries. Top with topped with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt and garnish with mint leaves or fresh lavender flowers from the garden. Serves four.
|
