The CAN DO Challenge

Winners

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?

The 2025 CAN DO Challenge will begin accepting submissions January 8, 2025 through April 30, 2025

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View Winning Recipes from Previous Competitions