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Right now, the pear selection at the Hollywood Farmers' Market is comprised of juicy yellow, green, and red Bartletts and crisp, speckled Asian pears. Bartlett pears bruise easily and are generally picked when they are still firm and not quite ripe. Ripen them at home at room temperature – putting them in a paper bag speeds up the process – for a couple of days to a week. Asian pears (also known as apple pears) are picked when ripe and can be eaten right away. Store all ripe pears in the refrigerator.

Related:
Quick Dessert Recipe: Roasted Pears with Lemon Stilton, Walnuts and Honey
Recipe: Rustic Pear and Apple Galette
Recipe: Wilted Arugula and Pear Salad
Two for One: Poached Pears and Red Wine Syrup

(Images: Gregory Han)