Baked Pears

Thought for the day:
"There are only ten minutes in the life of a pear when it is perfect to eat."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

If you're looking for a heart healthy dessert that is sweet, grab a pear. This recipe is great because you can whip this up quick for an after dinner dessert.

This particular recipe was found on a "heart healthy" website. I modified it just a bit-

Baked Pears
(print)

2 large pears
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 teaspoons orange zest
1/3 cup orange juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Cut pears in half lengthwise; core and remove seeds. Spoon out 1 tablespoon of fruit from the center of each pear half and place in a small bowl. Place the pear halves, cut side up, in a shallow microwave safe baking dish.

Add the cinnamon, orange zest, orange juice and vanilla to the reserved fruit and mix well. Add the graham cracker crumbs and walnuts. Evenly spoon this mixture on the top of each pear half. Cover with plastic wrap; vent one corner.

Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until pears are tender when pierced with a fork.

Serve with your favorite cheese, if desired.