Asian pears (Pyrus pyrifolia) are round, exceptionally crisp and juicy pears with thin edible skins and a refreshing sweet flavor. Unlike European pears, which soften considerably as they ripen, Asian pears retain their firm, crunchy texture when ripe and are often eaten much like a crisp apple. Varieties range from pale yellow-green to golden-brown and russeted, with subtle differences in sweetness, aroma, and texture. Asian pears are particularly rich in fiber and provide polyphenols including proanthocyanidins, chlorogenic acid, arbutin, and other flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Enjoy them fresh with the peel intact or add them to salads, slaws, grain bowls, salsas, and savory dishes.