Pears (Pyrus communis) are oval shaped fruits that are wide at the bottom and grow thinner towards their stem creating a pear shape. Pears have a thin outer skin that can be green, brown, or red, with a white inner flesh and small seeds in a center core
Health Benefits of Pears:
Health Benefits of Pears:
- Increased Immune Function
- Protection Against Heart Disease
How to choose Pears: Look for vibrantly colored pairs with few discolorations. You can buy pears when very firm and allow them to ripen, pears are generally ready to be eaten when they are slightly soft to mushy.
How to store Pears: If kept in a cool dry place (like a fridge) firm pears can last for months, when brought into warmth they can ripen in days. Pears will also ripen faster when placed next to bananas.
Climate and origin: Pears originated in Europe and Asia, the climate they need to grow in depends greatly on variety with some varieties being able to stand very cold climates (Zone 2 in the U.S.) and others doing better in warm temperate climates. (Zones 6-9 in the U.S.)
Taste: Pears have a fragrant taste and can be slightly-to-very sweet, depending on variety. Most pairs can be eaten when crisp or allowed to ripen till mushy.
