Are you looking for a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the sweet and buttery flavor of Asian pears? Look no further! With their sweet, slightly tangy taste and tender texture, Asian pears are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory salads to sweet treats. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and unique Asian pear recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
From classic combinations like Asian Pear and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing to bold and spicy flavors like Spicy Asian Pear Salsa with Cilantro and Lime, these recipes showcase the incredible range of possibilities when it comes to cooking with Asian pears. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment in the kitchen, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Stay tuned for our full roundup of refreshing Asian pear recipes, and get ready to enjoy the sweetest season of all!
Asian Pear and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweet flavors of Asian pears and honey with the crunch of toasted walnuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe Asian pears, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced Asian pears, chopped walnuts, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Pour the honey dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Asian Pear Salsa with Cilantro and Lime
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the bold flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pear, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice; stir to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian Pear and Ginger Smoothie
Experience the refreshing flavors of Asia with this unique smoothie recipe that combines sweet Asian pear, spicy ginger, and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe Asian pears, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped Asian pears, ginger, Greek yogurt, ice-cold water, and honey (if using).
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend again for 1-2 seconds.
4. Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
Braised Asian Pear with Star Anise and Cinnamon
Braised Asian Pear with Star Anise and Cinnamon: A sweet and savory dessert that combines the natural sweetness of Asian pears with the warm, aromatic spices of star anise and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Asian pears (such as Bartlett or Shinseiki), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1 whole star anise pod
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine the Asian pear halves, star anise pod, and cinnamon.
3. Add the sugar, water, and butter to the saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asian Pear and Cucumber Summer Rolls
Beat the heat with these Asian Pear and Cucumber Summer Rolls, perfect for a light and refreshing snack or appetizer. The combination of sweet and crunchy pears, cool cucumbers, and fragrant herbs will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe Asian pear, sliced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 20-25 spring roll wrappers (rice paper)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears, cucumbers, cilantro, and mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Pour the dressing over the pear mixture and toss to coat.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the pear mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the summer rolls in hot oil until crispy and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Asian Pear with Vanilla Ice Cream
A sweet and savory treat that combines the natural sweetness of pears with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe Asian pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and cinnamon.
3. Brush both sides of the pears with the sugar mixture.
4. Grill the pears for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve warm pears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Asian Pear and Chicken Stir-Fry with Hoisin Sauce
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines the tender flavors of chicken and Asian pear with a hint of hoisin sauce, all wrapped up in a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 Asian pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add sliced Asian pears and cook until they start to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in hoisin sauce and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian Pear and Jicama Slaw with Chili Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of Asian pears with the crunch of jicama, all tied together with a spicy kick from the chili dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 large Asian pear, peeled and diced
– 1 medium jicama, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced Asian pear and jicama.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
3. Add the chili dressing mixture to the slaw and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped jalapeño pepper.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian Pear and Pork Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Savor the harmonious union of tender pork and sweet Asian pears wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper, served with a savory soy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped Asian pear
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Dumpling wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– Soy dipping sauce ingredients: 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped Asian pear, flour, salt, and white pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the pork-pear mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape and press edges together to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook dumplings by steaming for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Prepare soy dipping sauce by whisking all ingredients together in a small bowl.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian Pear and Mango Chutney
This chutney is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, made with the natural sweetness of Asian pears and mangoes. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe Asian pears, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pears, mango, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the fruit is tender and the chutney has thickened.
3. Stir in grated ginger and red chili flakes (if using).
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Let the chutney cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Asian Pear and Coconut Rice Pudding
A sweet and soothing dessert that combines the flavors of Asia with a creamy rice pudding. This comforting treat is perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup diced Asian pear (such as Japanese or Korean pear)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, diced Asian pear, and vanilla extract.
3. Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooling time)
Asian Pear and Kale Detox Juice
This refreshing juice is packed with nutrients to help flush out toxins and rejuvenate your body. The sweetness of the Asian pear pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of kale, making for a deliciously healthy drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 Asian pear, cored
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1/2 lemon, peeled
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the Asian pear, kale, lemon, and ginger to a juicer.
2. Juice all ingredients according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Strain the juice into a large glass filled with ice.
4. Top with water and stir gently.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your revitalizing Asian Pear and Kale Detox Juice, perfect for a quick pick-me-up any time of day!
Asian Pear and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of tender Asian pears, creamy goat cheese, and crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe Asian pear, peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the baguette slices on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil over the crostini, then sprinkle with goat cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Top each crostini with a slice of Asian pear and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian Pear and Shrimp Ceviche
This recipe combines the sweetness of Asian pears with the succulence of shrimp, creating a unique and delicious ceviche perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe Asian pears, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, Asian pear, and lime juice.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and soy sauce.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is ready when you are.
Asian Pear and Black Sesame Mochi
Experience the harmony of sweet and savory flavors with this unique mochi recipe, featuring tender Asian pear and nutty black sesame. This delightful treat is perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 ripe Asian pear, diced
– 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
4. Flatten each ball into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of diced Asian pear onto the center of each disk.
6. Sprinkle black sesame seeds around the pear.
7. Fold the mochi over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to enjoy straight away.
Asian Pear and Lemongrass Infused Water
Stay hydrated with this flavorful and aromatic infused water, perfect for warm weather or any time you want a refreshing pick-me-up. This recipe combines the sweetness of Asian pears with the citrusy zing of lemongrass for a unique and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe Asian pear, sliced into thin wedges
– 4-6 stalks of fresh lemongrass, bruised to release oils
– 1 quart (4 cups) of water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced Asian pear and bruised lemongrass.
2. Add the quart of water to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled, with or without ice cubes.
5. Strain out the solids before serving, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy.
Asian Pear and Tofu Buddha Bowl with Peanut Dressing
Nourish your body and soul with this harmonious bowl of flavors, featuring crispy tofu, succulent Asian pear, and a creamy peanut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 ripe Asian pears, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss tofu with peanut oil, salt, and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Buddha Bowl by placing the baked tofu on top of the greens mixture. Arrange sliced Asian pear around the tofu.
5. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the pear and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian Pear and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
A sweet and savory combination, this flatbread brings together the natural sweetness of Asian pears with the deep flavors of caramelized onions. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 ripe Asian pears, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Place on a baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark brown.
4. Arrange the sliced pears on one half of the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Spoon the caramelized onions over the pears.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional toppings if desired.
7. Fold the other half of the flatbread over the filling to form a triangle or fold in a flag shape.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 refreshing Asian pear recipes! From sweet treats like Grilled Asian Pear with Vanilla Ice Cream and Asian Pear and Coconut Rice Pudding, to savory dishes like Braised Asian Pear with Star Anise and Cinnamon and Asian Pear and Chicken Stir-Fry with Hoisin Sauce. You’ll also find healthy options like Asian Pear and Kale Detox Juice and Asian Pear and Tofu Buddha Bowl with Peanut Dressing. Plus, many more creative recipes that showcase the versatility of this sweet and crunchy fruit.