Pears Perfected!

by Megan Callahan, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian
 

     Pears are especially popular in the fall and in holidays dishes; however, they have gained year-round popularity due to being versatile in many dishes. It’s easy and delicious to incorporate pears into sweet or savory dishes, and you add a whole lot of nutrition.
      At Hy-Vee you will find several varieties ranging from Bartlett, Anjou and Red Anjou to Bosc.
     Selecting, storing and preparing pears doesn’t have to be difficult with these easy tips. Select pears that have a slight give when gently pressed at the top. Pears ripen from the inside out, so softness overall may indicate over ripeness.
     Store at room temperature, or inside a paper bag if pears are hard or firm and needing to ripen. Prepare by washing with cold water before eating. No need to peel, just slice pears in half and take out the core with a knife or melon baller.
     This fun fruit is high in fiber – which helps keep you full – and potassium, a powerful player in hydration, muscle and nerve functioning and regulating blood pressure. Potassium may also aid in reducing blood pressure and water retention, protect against stroke and prevent osteoporosis and kidney stones.  Pears also are an excellent source of vitamin C, a defender of cell health as an antioxidant.
     The sweetest, juiciest varieties are found at Hy-Vee – there’s no com-pear-ison!
 
     The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
 
     Megan Callahan is one of your Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitians. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Megan received a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Missouri State University. She completed her dietetic internship at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she also received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition. Megan has been working with Hy-Vee full-time for 10 years. With a passion for nutrition and wellness, Megan is dedicated to educating customers and promoting healthy lifestyles to our Hy-Vee community. Megan lives in Lee’s Summit with her husband Matt, and their 2 children Kennedy (4) & Carsyn (2).