'Spice it Up'

Are you frustrated with the same old food having the same recipes? I know I get frustrated. It’s time to spice it up. Let’s talk fruit. Do you know that grilling fruit has an amazing and unique flavor? I love grilling fruit. The flavors are amazing and it brings the fruit to a different level of flavor.

Pears are a great sweet fruit. Here are a couple of ideas to enhance the flavor of the ordinary green pear. A pear can be baked or grilled. If you choose to bake them, slice the pear in half from the length. Scoop out the seeds and make a little hole in the middle. Season with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar and rub the outside with a little butter or margarine. Pour a little water in the baking dish and cover with lid or foil. Bake in the oven for about an hour on a 350 degree oven. The pears will come out juicy and tender. If you have cranberry sauce or something you enjoy with the pear, place it in the pit you scooped out. It’s a beautiful presentation and tastes delicious.

Now for the grilled pear. Slice the pear in thick slices. If you want to season it with your favorite seasoning, do so. If not, just put in directly on the grill. Turn the pear on the other side once the pear is soft and has grill marks.

The grilled pear enhances the flavors of the main dish, which should be protein. It will satisfy your sweet tooth without simple sugar. Add the pear to a salad with goat, gorgonzola or blue cheese. The flavors will be sweet and savory, yet very tasty. You can also try the same cooking technique with the gala apple.

As the holidays approach, experiment with new flavors and techniques with some of your favorite food and fruit. Impress your family and friends. Enjoy and spice it up!