Grilled Stuffed Pears

Pears grilled and stuffed with quinoa and cheese

When it comes to summer grilling, pears are often overlooked. But the fact is their hardy texture is ideal for standing up to the intensity of the grill, and as they cook, their delicious flavor is enhanced by the smoky flames. Grilled pears can be prepared in both sweet and savory ways: think grilled pear halves topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, or sliced grilled pears tossed in a summery salad. Here they are cooked on the grill until just tender and juicy, with a quinoa salad stuffing that evokes flavors of the Mediterranean. Extra-virgin olive oil, Spanish-style chorizo, and fresh mint add a bold, summertime flare, while white balsamic vinegar adds a sweet, fruity tang to complement the flavors found in the grilled pears. Serve these at your next backyard barbecue, for an outside-the-box appetizer Continue reading

Grill Master

To me, summer means sunshine, farmers’ markets and grilling. I personally love the flavors of grilled foods and regularly grill veggies as a side or base for meals. One of the greatest challenges I have faced in my years of counseling and teaching is that people have been trained to think they don’t like fruit and/or vegetables, and they don’t venture outside the norm for ingredients or culinary techniques. The remedy is simply to get a little creative in the kitchen – or backyard – and be okay with failing once in a while. I base most of my meals on produce, and in the summer that means adding a treat of grilled fruit at the end! Grilling is probably one of the simplest culinary techniques for fruit and veggies. In the beginning, it’s a good idea to stay close Continue reading

Grilled Pizzettas with Pears, Shaved Ham, and Fresh Basil

Cooking pizza on the grill is an excellent way to keep your house cool in the summer and still enjoy one of your favorite dinners—and it’s easier than you think! This recipe makes four individual pizzettas, so everyone can enjoy their very own. You’ll lightly crisp one side of the pizza crusts, flip them, top them, and cook them until they’re done to your liking. Fresh USA Pear slices, shaved ham, and fragrant basil make the perfect summer toppings for this lighter (but no less delicious) version of this beloved meal. Ingredients 1 ball (16 ounces) store-bought pizza dough Flour for rolling out dough 2 tablespoons olive oil 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated 4 ounces best-quality shaved ham 2 firm ripe USA Pears, such as Green or Red Bartlett Several stems fresh basil leaves Directions About an hour before you’d Continue reading

Pear, Hoisin, and Sesame Glazed Beef

This recipe is a riff on classic Korean barbecued ribs. Pears provide most of the sweetness for the marinade, with the toasty flavor of sesame oil and a hint of savory garlic coming through. If you can’t find cross cut ribs, this sauce is equally delicious on beef or pork kabobs. After marinating, grill these beauties over a hot fire and serve with steamed rice and a side of kimchi or a simple cucumber salad seasoned with rice vinegar. Ingredients 12 beef ribs, kalbi-style (sliced across the bone) ¼ cup hoisin sauce 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 3 tablespoons mirin 2 ripe USA Pears, such as Bartlett or Bosc, quartered and cored 3 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths 1 medium clove garlic 1 tablespoon sesame oil For garnish 3 scallions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds Directions Wash the ribs Continue reading

Grilled Pork Chops with Pears and Rosemary Butter

Here is a satisfying recipe that can be made outside on the grill in under thirty minutes. The pork, pears, and rosemary butter are all wrapped up into foil packets, which results in an incredibly tender pork chop that creates its own amazing sauce while it cooks. These grilled pork chops with pears would make a great summer dinner on a hot day alongside some grilled corn on the cob, but they will also make for an equally amazing meal this fall with roasted squash on the side. Ingredients 3 tablespoons salted butter, softened 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary, plus four sprigs for garnish 4 bone-in pork chops, about 6 ounces each Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 medium red onion, sliced into ⅛ inch rings 2 firm ripe USA Pears, such as Anjou, sliced into ¼ inch pieces Continue reading

Grill, Mastered!

It’s finally summer, my favorite season! I love summer because of all the fresh foods, the outside gatherings, and of course, the warm weather. Unfortunately, it’s only early June, and I’m already tired of the fatty fare available at picnics. Well, the grill isn’t just for burgers anymore! Try something delightful and healthy at your next outdoor grilling event. Grilled fruits and veggies are an excellent and delicious way to add color, variety, and nutrients to any backyard bash. Ditch the potato salad and coleslaw and pop some festive veggie kabobs on the grill! You can use any vegetables you like, but seasonal, grillable options include peppers, eggplant, squash, tomatoes, and onions. Just brush them with olive oil and grill over medium heat, turning until tender and marked. But if you’re like me, you’re more interested in dessert! Try grilling Continue reading