Happy holidays and happy National Pear Month! The USDA touts December as National Pear Month because the greatest varieties of pears are available right now, and the holidays wouldn’t be as joyous without these succulent and versatile treasures! The northwest United States is home to ten varieties of pears, thus recipes and ideas abound for the holidays. Why not make your holiday table healthier and happier with pears?

Pears lend a festive flair to any dish, and since they’re a healthful fruit, they add nutrients and fiber that keep you feeling full while you’re shopping or tempted by the sweets table at holiday parties. One of my favorite dishes to serve for the holidays or bring to gatherings is poached pears, particularly the delicious and tender red wine poached pears with mascarpone and candied almonds. The addition of mascarpone and almonds lend bite plus a sweet and savory flavor profile to the buttery mouthfeel of poached pears. Indeed, poaching pears in diluted juice also makes for a delicious and festive breakfast! Enjoy your pears and have a happy, healthy holiday!