Apricot Poached Pears

1. 1

   Put preserves in a 1-cup measure.

2. 2

   Cook, uncovered, at 100 percent power in a high-power oven for 1 minute.

3. 3

   Remove from oven.

4. 4

   Stir in 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice and the kirsch.

5. 5

   Pass mixture through a sieve into a shallow bowl.

6. 6

   Set aside.

7. 7

   Peel the pears and core them through the bottom.

8. 8

   As you work, rub the pears inside and out with the remaining lemon juice to prevent discoloration.

9. 9

   Roll each apricot lengthwise and put one in the cavity of each pear.

10. 10

    Coat the pears in the apricot mixture.

11. 11

    Arrange pears in a circle around the inside rim of a 2 1/4-quart souffle dish.

12. 12

    Cover tightly with microwave plastic wrap.

13. 13

    Cook 7 minutes.

14. 14

    Prick plastic to release steam.

15. 15

    Remove from oven and uncover.

16. 16

    Serve hot or cold.

17. 17

    Put each pear on a plate and spoon some of the remaining sauce over.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.