By Olivia Fowler
For the Courier

The most important thing to remember about pears is to allow them to ripen before using.

Most of the pears in grocery stores are not ripe, but if left out of the refrigerator for a couple of days at home, they will ripen beautifully.

If you have access to a pear tree, you’ll know to pick the pears just before they’re ready and then let them ripen on the counter.

There’s nothing quite like a ripe pear. It’s mild in flavor, sweet and juicy. Please enjoy this week’s recipes.