Vanilla & Maple Roasted Pears

pears, lemon, maple syrup, vanilla beans, butter, storebought candied nuts, thick yoghurt (optional)

Cut 4 large, unpeeled pears in half; arrange the pears, cut side up, in a baking dish. Use a teaspoon or melon baller to remove the core and seeds. Drizzle with the juice of a lemon and 3-4 tablespoons maple syrup. Sprinkle with the seeds of 2 vanilla beans and dot with a little butter. Bake, uncovered, at 190°C for 30–35 minutes, or until lightly browned and tender. Scatter with ½ cup chopped candied nuts. Serve with thick yoghurt, if desired. Serves 4