When imagining the perfect pear, most people picture the Bartlett. This popular, farm-fresh fruit is available at Placer County farmers’ markets throughout the late-summer season and into early winter. 

SELECTION AND STORAGE

Farmers harvest Bartlett pears before they’re ripe; if they ripen on a tree, they’ll develop natural deposits of lignin and cellulose in the flesh, which causes a gritty texture. The fruit is perfect for your dish when the yellow Bartlett’s skin transforms from green to yellow and when the red Bartlett’s skin transforms from a dark red to a brilliant red. If you prefer your pear to have a crunch and be tart, go with the yellow Bartlett when the skin is green. If you prefer a sweeter fruit, pick a Bartlett when its skin is brilliant red. All pears ripen at room temperature, so only refrigerate them if you want to slow the ripening process.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Bartlett Pears with Honey (appetizer) Recipe by PlacerGROWN Chef Courtney McDonald 

• 2 firm-ripe Bartlett pears, cored and cut into eight pieces lengthwise
• 8 thin slices prosciutto ham, sliced in half lengthwise
• 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
• 1 Tbsp. honey
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 16 decorative toothpicks

DID YOU KNOW?

The Bartlett pear, in both yellow and red varieties, carries the true pyriform pear shape: a rounded bell on the bottom half and a smaller neck or stem end. It has the most distinctive pear flavor, and is perfect for eating as a snack or as an addition to any summertime dish. Looking to add some tartness to a cabbage slaw? Try adding a little of the yellow Bartlett while it’s still green. Want a sweet element in your fruit napoleon? Slice up a red Bartlett when it ripens for the perfect taste. Either way, these pears will satisfy the pickiest of eaters. One of the best ways to enjoy the fruit is in this month’s Prosciutto-Wrapped Bartlett Pears with Honey recipe (to view it, visit stylergbr.com) prepared by PlacerGROWN Chef Courtney McDonald. The combination of farm-fresh ingredients and easy preparation makes it an instant appetizer favorite. 

— Elyssa Seals

For details on where to buy Placer County farm-fresh produce, wine, meat and local products, visit placergrown.org and foothillfarmersmarket.com.