Ingredients

3 pounds parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces

3 ripe pears, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon snipped chives

Coarse salt

Preparation

Place parsnips in large saucepan and add enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer until fork tender, about 20 minutes.

Remove pan from heat; add pears, cover, and let stand until pears are tender, about 5 minutes. Drain, reserving 2 cups of liquid.

Using an immersion blender or blender in small batches, puree parsnips and pears, adding reserved liquid to achieve desired consistency.

Transfer puree to a large bowl; stir in butter and chives. Season with salt.