Pears are one of the oldest cultivated fruits on the planet. Roughly the size of an apple and skin that is paper thin ranging in colors from yellow to red, brown and green. Pears possess light colored flesh that is a bit grainy with juicy, sweet taste. Typically pears are bell-shaped, but more rounded varieties are also available.
A unique feature of pears is that they ripen best once picked. Commercial growers usually pick the mature fruit that is usually not yet ripe. Allowing them to sit on the kitchen counter for a day or two allows them to ripen fully. In order to speed up the process they may be left inside a brown paper bag. Pears begin to ripen from the inside, so to see if they are ready for consumption, gently press near the stem, if it is soft to the touch the fruit is ready. When the pear is soft to the touch around the middle, it is already overripe!
Recipe Title
- 2 firm pears
- 1 cup pineapple pieces
- 1 cm piece of fresh ginger
- 3-4 Ice cubes
Add-ons
- Green apples
- spinach
Nutritional Information
Pears are exceptional providers of water-soluble fiber, with one medium sized piece (about 160 grams) delivering roughly 20 per cent of the daily recommended allowance. They contain no sodium, saturated fat, or cholesterol and only 100 calories in addition to one gram of protein. They are also a good source of vitamin C, K, folate, iron copper, potassium and magnesium and contain a number of important phytochemicals like beta-carotene, lutein and zea-xanthin.
Health Benefits of Pears
The elevated amount of fiber in pears is beneficial for the heart. Studies show that fiber plays a key role in reducing bad cholesterol levels by binding it with bile salts and removing it from the body. Consumption of pears is associated with a reduction in the risk of stroke and being hypoallergenic it is safe for individuals who tend to develop allergic response with other fruits.
A Cornell University study found that the elevated antioxidant content of pears can help prevent brain related problems like Alzheimer’s. The variety of vitamins like C and K and phytonutrients help to maintain the immune system and offer antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory benefits.