It was Albert Einstein who said, “A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?” How about a pear?  Pears don’t just taste great; they also have a history, going all the way back to 1000 B.C. In Ancient Greece, people used pears to treat nausea. The fiber found in pears helps to ease digestion, so pears are not only a tasty snack, but can also be used to help alleviate stomach aches. Pears are also low in calories. The combination of low calories and high fiber also make pears perfect for dieting. Not many people are allergic to pears, so they are considered hypoallergenic.  With all the benefits of a pear, it’s a good thing they are available all year long.

Try this recipe for:

Chili-Brown Sugar Delicata Squash with Pears

Ingredients

1 pound delicata squash (about 1 large)

2 medium ripe but firm pears, sliced

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Cut crosswise into ¼-inch slices. Toss in a large bowl with pears, oil, salt and pepper. Spread on a large baking sheet.

Roast the squash and pears until just tender, stirring once or twice, 20 to 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Discard all but 2 teaspoons fat from the pan. Over medium heat, stir in water, brown sugar and chili powder. Add the squash and pears; toss to coat. Crumble the bacon on top.

Easy cleanup: To save time and keep your baking sheet looking fresh, line it with a layer of foil before you bake.

Did you know?

In China, it is bad luck for lovers or friends to share a pear.