Strawberries and pears nestle beneath a golden cloud of coconut meringue. A perfect summer dessert.

Strawberries and Pears With Coconut Meringue

2 ripe pears, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3 large egg whites
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons sweetened flaked coconut

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Arrange pears and strawberries in a 9-inch pie plate. Sprinkle with brown sugar.
3. In a stainless steel or glass bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Add sugar and beat until peaks are stiff and glossy. Gently fold in coconut.
4. Spread meringue on fruit, taking care to seal edges.
5. Bake for 4 to 5 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Makes 6 servings.