April Fruit of the Month!!!

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights a fruit and vegetable each month. The chosen fruit for April is:

The Asian Pear


Asian pears are cousins to the pears that are typically seen in grocery stores, but this fruit is similar to an apple and its many names reflect that characteristic. Other names that this fruit goes by are: Chinese pear, Japanese pear, Sand, Nashi, and apple pear.

Asian pears differ from the traditional European ones. These pears are usually round, firm to touch when ripe, and are ready to eat after harvest. Asian pears reach prime quality when they ripen on the tree, like an apple and peach. These pears will be crisp, juicy, and slightly sweet with some tartness, especially near the core. To learn more about the asian pear click here.

Asian Pear Slaw with Chilies
Makes 6 servings
Each serving equals 1/2 cup of fruit or vegetables
Source: Chris Faulkner for Melissa’s Variety Produce, Inc.

Ingredients

6 celery ribs
4 Tbsp fresh lime juice
4 Tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
1 tsp ginger root
6 Asian Pears, sliced ¼-inch thick
3 scallions, thinly sliced on diagonal
¼ cup Cilantro leaves
½ tsp Fresno chili or Jalapeno chili, finely chopped

Whisk together juice, vinegar, and ginger and stir in celery and remaining ingredients with salt and pepper to taste. Let stand at room temperature 15 minutes before serving.

Nutritional analysis per serving: Calories 67, Protein 2g, Fat 0g, Calories from Fat 0%, Cholesterol 0mg, Carbohydrates 17g, Fiber 1g, Sodium 52mg.