Pears

How to select

Test a pear's ripeness by gently pressing the neck of the pear with your thumb. If ripe, the pear will give to the pressure. Pears ripen after they are harvested.

How to prepare

Cut the pear in half lengthwise and remove the bottom stem. Peel the stem from top to bottom and remove the core with a measuring spoon.

How to store

Use ripe pears right away or store in the fridge and use within 5 days. Firm pears can be kept at room temperature.

Peak season

Fall, winter

Ways to use

• Spread peanut butter on pear slices. 
• Grate pear and add to your favorite baked item, such as muffins. 
• Replace apples with pears in recipes for a refreshing change.

Fun facts

• 88% of the U.S.'s pears are grown in Oregon and Washington. 
• Dipping cut pears into 1/2 water and 1/2 lemon juice can slow down browning. 
• Pears are related to apples and can be used for anything an apple would be used for.

Nutrition info and facts

Pears are high in fiber and water to promote a healthy digestive tract. Naturally sodium-free, pears are a heart healthy food. Pears are a good source of vitamin C, which promotes healing of cuts, wounds, and bruises.

1 medium pear = 100 calories, 25 g carbohydrate, 6 g fiber, 15 g sugar, 1 g protein, 21% daily fiber, 8% daily vitamin C, 4% daily potassium

Learn more

Growing pears in the home garden (UMN Extension)