What to Serve with Poached Pears- 8+ Side Dish Ideas
So here you are thinking, what in the world do I serve with poached pears? Fear not, I’m here to help. Poached pears are a deliciously sweet and elegant meal, but what do you serve as a side dish to compliment them?
I’ve been there before. You want to make a special meal, but you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. You also don’t want to serve something that will compete with the main event.
While there are many possible side dishes that would be suitable, I’ve compiled a list of my favorites. Each side dish is chosen for its ability to provide a delicious contrast in flavor. But, most importantly, they won’t steal the show from your poached pears.
These sides have been tried and tested by the most critical testers, namely my family. They have all given their stamp of approval, so I know they’ll be perfect for your meal as well.
So, without further ado, Let’s get started
What to serve with Poached Pears
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Hot Pancakes
- Mascarpone and Almonds
- Espresso and Cherry
- Chocolate Pudding and Almonds
- Caramel Sauce
- Bourbon and Spices
Vanilla Ice Cream
First up, I have the classic combo of vanilla ice cream and poached pears. This one is a real crowd pleaser and it’s easy to see why. the sweetness of the pears pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy flavor of the ice cream, making for a truly heavenly dessert.
Best of all, it can be prepared in just a few minutes. Simply poach some pears in a flavorful syrup, then serve them alongside a scoop or two of your favorite vanilla ice cream. Feeling fancy? try garnishing with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Either way, there are endless ways to enjoy this side dish. For a special treat, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also get creative with the types of pears you use. For instance, try poaching them in white wine or substituting them with other fruits like peaches or apples.
However you serve it, Vanilla Ice Cream with Poached Pears is sure to be a hit!
Hot Pancakes
What’s better than a big, ol’ stack of hot pancakes? A big, ol’ stack of pancakes served with poached pears, that’s what! This delicious side dish is the perfect way to add a little bit of sweetness and luxury to your morning meal.
However, the best part is, that it’s actually pretty easy to prepare. Just poach some pears in a sugar syrup until they’re soft and then top them with a dollop of whipped cream alongside some just off the griddle hot pancakes. Yum!
Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to serving this dish for breakfast. It would also be great as a dessert or even as a tasty snack.
Mascarpone and Almonds
Following up on the list, I have the classic Italian side dish of Mascarpone and Almonds. This one is a real favorite of mine because it’s so simple, yet so elegant and delicious.
Basically, the mascarpone and almonds add richness to the dish that is balanced by the sweetness of the poached pears. This dish can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for parties or potlucks.
So, to make this dish, simply combine the mascarpone, almonds, and pears in a serving dish. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cinnamon.
Likewise, this dish can also be enjoyed as a dessert or snack. Simply omit the mint garnish and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
Espresso and Cherry
Up next is another dish that is sure to impress, which is Espresso and Cherry. This unique flavor combo is the perfect way to add a touch of sophistication to your meal.
Not to mention, this dish is so good, that y’all are gonna be begging for seconds. It’s perfect for a fall day since the pears, and fresh cherries are poached in a light syrup made with cinnamon and espresso. I also like to add a tad bit of cherry brandy to spruce things up.
Afterward, this delicious mix is served alongside some more fresh cherries. I must say that the cherries add a pop of color and sweetness, while the espresso gives the dish a rich depth of flavor. Plus, it just looks so darn pretty on the plate
Chocolate Pudding and Almonds
This next side dish is one that is sure to please the chocolate lovers out there. Chocolate Pudding and Almonds is a rich, decadent dish that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
What I love about this dish is that when paired with poached pears, the pear’s natural sweetness is enhanced by the chocolate, and the almond’s rich flavor pairs nicely with the pear’s delicate texture. Plus, because chocolate pudding is already rich and creamy, there’s no need to add any additional toppings or sauces.
Frankly, this simple yet elegant side dish is sure to please everyone at your next gathering. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the pears for another type of fruit. Peaches, apples, and berries all make great choices. With so many delicious possibilities, there’s no excuse not to try this versatile side dish today!
Caramel Sauce
For this next pairing, I have Caramel sauce, and when served with poached pears, it’s the perfect way to dress things up. This irresistible combination truly elevates the dish to new heights.
And speaking of elevating, this dish is so easy to prepare that you’ll be able to enjoy it without any stress or hassle. So you will be to keep those tired feet elevated a bit longer. The best part is that you can either use a store-bought variety or make your own from scratch.
Believe it or not, caramel sauce is actually pretty easy to make at home. Just melt some sugar in a pan until it turns golden brown, then add cream and butter and stir until smooth. Once your sauce is ready, spoon it over your poached pears. I like to add a sprinkle of sea salt to the sauce to really bring out the flavor of the caramel.
Bourbon and Spices
And for my final side dish, I have another favorite known as Bourbon and Spices. This is the perfect accompaniment for those who like their food with a bit of heat. The pears are poached in a mixture of water, sugar, and spices, then simmered in bourbon until they’re nice and plump.
The result is a dish that is subtly sweet with a kick of booze and heat. I like to garnish mine with a sprig of rosemary, but you can use any herb you like. And, if you want an extra dose of flavor, try adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the mix.
FAQ
Are poached pears healthy?
Yes, poached pears are a healthy option. Pears are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and when they’re poached, they retain all of their nutritional value.
What can I do with leftover poached pears?
There are many ways to use up leftover poached pears. You can chop them up and add them to oatmeal or yogurt, use them as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even blend them into a smoothie. You can also simply reheat them and enjoy them as is.
Can I make poached pears ahead of time?
Yes, you can make poached pears ahead of time. In fact, they actually taste better when made in advance. Simply poach the pears according to the recipe instructions, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How long will poached pears keep in the fridge?
Poached pears will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days. But for best quality, I recommend using the pears within 5 days. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from going bad.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, what to serve with poached pears is really up to you and what you are in the mood for. All of these sides are great choices that will take your dish to the next level.
So now that you know what to serve with poached pears, ask yourself these questions. Do you want something sweet or savory? Hot or cold? Rich or light? No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s a side dish on this list that will fit the bill.