An ‘anytime’ favorite

Looking to include more healthy fruits and vegetables in your diet? The Produce for Better Health Foundation has created the “Fruits & Veggies—More Matters” health initiative to help educate the public on the value of a balanced diet that incorporates a variety of fruits and vegetables.

This fresh, colorful pear salad is great anytime. Each serving provides an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C, and a good source of folate and fiber.

Savory Pear Salad

Recipe courtesy of the Produce for Better Health Foundation

1/2 cup dry orzo

1 cup diced raw pears (1 medium or 2 small)

2 tablespoons orange juice

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, divided

1/4 cup raisins

1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes

3 tablespoons buttermilk ranch dressing

4 cups fresh spinach, torn

2 tablespoons sliced almonds

Prepare orzo according to package directions. Place diced pears in small bowl and add orange and lemon juices. Allow to sit for 5 minutes. Mix in 2 teaspoons fresh dill and next three ingredients. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Place equal amounts of torn spinach on four plates. Spoon equal amounts of pear salad on bed of spinach. Top with equally divided amounts of sliced almonds and remaining fresh dill. Serves 4.

For food tips and easy-to-prepare, healthy meals, visit the Better Health Foundation’s Fruits & Veggies—More Matters Web site, www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org.