Pears Poached in Beaujolais

No matter how packed full of turkey, potatoes and stuffing our bellies become, everyone I know has an uncanny ability to make wiggle room for dessert at the end of Thanksgiving dinner.  I mean, how could you not?  I'm sure everyone you know has this same natural ability.  It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without having at least a small sliver of the Aunt Betty's famous pumpkin pie.

Pumpkin pie, however, was never a mandatory staple during our family's Thanksgiving dinner ritual.  In fact, I never remember a single pumpkin dessert of any kind growing up.  What I do remember is fruit.  Lots of fresh fruit.

When I saw this beautiful pear dessert, I knew I had found the ending I'd been seeking for the big day.  It's light, elegant, and doesn't involve the words cream, butter, or sugar.

My belly will be happy with me.

Source:  NY Times, Fitness and Nutrition