Baked Pears in Spiced Pomogrante Syrup

The ruby colored pomegranate syrup is beautiful and festive, and baked pears are so much more enticing than a typical fruit salad.

Baked Pears in Spiced Pomegranate Syrup

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups unsweetened pomegranate juice
3/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, from one large lemon
2 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving
6 whole cloves
4 firm baking pears, peeled and cored
1/2 cup pomegranate arils

Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 350°F.
In a small non-reactive sauce pan combine the pomegranate juice and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, then add the lemon juice, cinnamon sticks and cloves.
Arrange the pears cut side down in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Pour the pomegranate syrup over the pears, and place the dish in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, basting occasionally, until the pears are tender and easily pierced with a sharp knife. If serving hot, proceed to the next step; otherwise, cover and chill until ready to serve. Place the pears in shallow bowls and spoon the syrup over top. Sprinkle the pomegranate arils around the pears and garnish with cinnamon sticks, if desired. Serve with fork and knife for cutting the pear, and a spoon for the syrup. (The dish may be served hot, cold or room temperature.)