2024 CAN DO Challenge Winners
We asked to see new and inventive ways of using pears in your favorite recipes and your response has blown us away! We are thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s CAN DO Challenge.
First Place
Tacos Al “Pear-stor” with Grilled Pears & Pear Tomatillo Salsa
Submitted by
Ross Katz
Junior Chefs Academy
Indianapolis, IN
Second Place
Korean Pear Kimchi & Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwich
Submitted by
Andrew Francisco
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
Third Place
Pear Frangipane Tarte with Dulce de Leche Ice Cream
Submitted by
Michael Zebrowski
The Culinary Institute of America
Hyde Park, NY
Honorable Mentions
Pear Samosas and Spiced Red Wine Pear Reduction Sauce
Submitted by
Steven Schmidt
University of North Texas
Denton, TX
Pear Glazed Beef Yakisoba Noodles with Caramelized Soy Garlic Pears
Submitted by
Kevin Jenkins
Garland ISD
Garland, TX
Pear Walnut Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Pear Bacon Jam
Submitted by
Cindy Kerschner
American Family Dining Services
Allentown, PA
About the
CAN DO Challenge
Every year, culinary pros from non-commercial foodservice operations across the United States participate in our annual CAN DO Challenge by submitting fun and inventive dishes that highlight delicious U.S. grown canned pears. We love seeing all the creative ways these contestants show us what they “CAN DO” with the world’s most flexible and flavorful fruit!
Every applicant receives a $10 Amazon gift card just for submitting, and winning recipes receive:
1st place: $1,500
2nd place: $1,000
3rd place: $500
Here's what
we judge on...
Plate Appeal
Are the Pacific Northwest Canned Pears being served in a way that is creative? Does the dish look appetizing?
Flavor Appeal
Are the Pacific Northwest Canned Pears featured in a recipe that is delicious and appealing to your patrons?
