Roasted Yam & Pear Toss

 

One of my favourite things about Summer besides enjoying the beautiful weather to the fullest, is

BBQing

I have even taught my kids to BBQ!

Why not? It's fast and easy and they feel a sense of accomplishment.

The food is delicious and the clean up is fast!

When I have meat that is slow cooking like Beer Can Chicken or Leg of Lamb

I like to accompany that with something that is going to utilize the low and slow method on the BBQ

This way it all gets cooked together making good use of the heat

I thought this sweet and starch combo would be a great side dish (with lots of leftovers!)

and something a little different for the weekday doldrums

What a beautiful contrast of colours! 

Since my family are always the Guinea Pigs for my new creations :D, I got a thumbs up for this dish for a go ahead remake this dish for company.

 

 

1 large yam, washed, skin pierced all over with a fork

1 green pear, not over ripe, cut lengthwise into thirds

1 lime zested and cut in half

1 tbsp tahini paste (sesame seed paste)

1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped

2 tsp maple syrup + 1 tsp extra for marinade

1 tbsp EVOO

1 tbsp pesto

salt & pepper to taste

Wrap yam in a sheet of foil and place directly on BBQ grill. Cook on low heat until fork tender approx. 30min depending on size of yam. Set aside and allow to cool to the touch.

Brush cut pear sides with  maple syrup and place directly on BBQ grill. Cook on low heat to caramelize until you develop grill marks 10min if pear is hard *Do not overcook or the pear will disintegrate.*

Place lime on grill cut side down. Grill for 5 min to achieve grill marks. Set aside to cool to touch

 

Prepare the Dressing:

Place the tahini, zest, pesto, garlic, olive oil, extra maple syrup, 1/4 tsp pepper and 1/2 tsp salt in a small ramekin. Squeeze the lime halves and stir to blend. Add 1 tbsp of water and stir together.

Assembly:

Peel skin of the yam.  Slice into 1/2"-3/4" round slices, then cube the yam.

Dice the pear, removing seeds. Toss together.

Drizzle with  dressing toss to coat. Can be served warm or room temperature. Readjust seasoning.

Enjoy with love