Grilled Pears with Currants

Ring in spring with pears! Try these grilled pears as a substitute for potatoes the next time you are grilling chicken, or pork tenderloins. They can also be served for dessert with a dollop of your favorite ice cream.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup dried currants
• ¼ cup apple juice
• Pinch of freshly ground pepper
• 6 firm but ripe Anjou pears
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil for brushing on grill

Directions

Prepare a hot fire in a charcoal grill or preheat a gas or electric grill on high. In a small bowl, combine the currants, apple juice, and pepper. Allow the currants to marinate until ready to serve. Peel the pears and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a paring knife or melon baller to remove the core, leaving a gumball-sized-hole. Place in a shallow dish and brush all over with the melted butter. When ready to grill, brush the grill grate with vegetable oil. Place the pears, cut side up, in a single layer directly over the hot fire. Cook just until grill marks appear, about 3 minutes. Brush with any butter remaining in the dish, then turn and grill until tender but firm, about 3 to 4 minutes longer. Serve warm with a little of the apple juice soaked currants spooned over the top. Serves 6