Ingredients: 1/4 cup EACH: finely chopped dried apricots finely chopped pecans 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, softened, divided 2 large (about 8 ounces each) firm ripe pears 1/4 cup pure maple syrup vanilla yogurt or frozen vanilla yogurt, if desired Directions:Combine apricots and pecans in small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon butter; use a fork to combine. Set aside. Cut pears in half lengthwise. Using a melon baller or small spoon, remove core from each pear half, leaving a 1 1/2-inch diameter hole. Cut a thin slice from bottom of each to make a steady base. Place pears with narrow ends towards center in 9-inch square microwave-safe baking dish. Fill each pear with apricot mixture; set aside. Place maple syrup and remaining 3 tablespoons butter in 2-cup microwave-safe glass measure. Microwave on HIGH 1 minute or until butter is melted. Stir to combine. Pour over pears; cover loosely with waxed paper. Microwave on HIGH about 6 minutes or until pears are tender, basting pears with sauce halfway through cooking time. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve warm with yogurt. |