Pear Yogurt Parfait

This Pear Yogurt Parfait layers warmly spiced pear compote with creamy Greek-style yogurt and a crunchy glazed nut-and-seed topping for a nourishing breakfast. Ginger, cardamom and cinnamon add depth, while pears, nuts, seeds and pomegranate arils contribute gut-healthy fiber, making this a satisfying, make-ahead breakfast option to prep once and enjoy all week. Keep reading for our expert tips for success and some smart ingredient substitutions to ensure you can make this with what you have on hand.

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too! 

• Choose ripe but firm pears. If your pears are very ripe and soft, they will fall apart as they cook.
• Cook the nut-and-seed mixture over medium-low heat and stir constantly to prevent scorching and ensure even toasting.
• Apples can work well in place of pears. Use a slightly firmer variety with a balance of sweet and tart flavor, and cook until just tender.

Nutrition Notes

• One medium pear provides 6 grams of fiber, which helps support digestion, improve heart health and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Pears also contain vitamin C that can help fight off free radicals and reduce inflammation. Keeping the skin on the pears not only adds a source of insoluble fiber, but also supplies additional antioxidants. 
• Pomegranate seeds, also called arils, are noted for their high concentration of antioxidants. But they’re also high in insoluble fiber to support digestive and heart health. Plus we love that satisfying crunch we get biting into these seeds! 
• Nuts and seeds, including pecans, hemp and sesame seeds, are an easy way to add some additional fiber and protein to this parfait. Plus nuts and seeds have anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to omega-3s. That triple threat of fiber, protein and healthy fats help add to the fullness factor along with supporting blood sugar management for sustained energy.  
• Whole-milk strained (Greek-style) yogurt provides gut-healthy probiotics that pair well with the soluble and insoluble fiber found in the fruit, nuts and seeds. Its thick texture and high protein content, along with the fats in the whole milk, increases the satiety of this parfait, making it a perfect way to start the day or have as a midday pick-me-up.