Add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan and reduce to a syrup, about two minutes of gentle simmering.  Watch it closely, and don’t over-reduce – it doesn’t take long with this tiny amount, and the timing will vary widely depending on the surface area of your pan. It should taste good, and be a little darkened and thickened – about a 30 percent reduction. Remove pan from heat and let cool for a minute or two. Add the butter and gently stir until dissolved and incorporated.

For the pears: while the balsamic is reducing, in another pan, add the butter, then the pears, sprinkle with brown sugar and pepper, and saute gently for two to three minutes. until barely softened, taking care not to break them.

Arrange pears on plates, drizzle with the balsamic reduction, sprinkle with nuts, and just a few leaves or bits of herbs.  Add a small dollop of sour cream.

Nutrition:

Per Serving: 129 Calories; 5g Fat (31.9% calories from fat); 1g Protein; 23g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 4mg Cholesterol; 10mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.