Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual party or a formal event, these skewers add elegance and taste to your appetizer spread. The mix of juicy pears, creamy brie, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts creates a unique culinary experience that your guests will rave about!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: These skewers come together in just 20 minutes, allowing you to focus on your guests.
- Flavorful Combination: The pairing of sweet pears with rich brie and tangy balsamic glaze is simply irresistible.
- Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a light snack; they fit any occasion seamlessly.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and nuts, these skewers offer a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
- Gorgeous Presentation: The colorful layers on each skewer make for an eye-catching appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 4-inch skewers
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- 4-inch skewers: These small skewers are perfect for creating bite-sized appetizers that are easy to handle.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing fruits and cheese without slipping.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the pears and cheese, enhancing the presentation of your skewers.
Ingredients
For the Skewers
- 2 pears
- Approx. 8 ounces brie cheese (~225 grams)
- Approx. 2 cups baby arugula
- Approx. 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
- Balsamic glaze, to drizzle (or balsamic vinegar)
How to Make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
- Slice pears into quarters and remove seeds and stem.
- Cut quarters into roughly 1/2-inch cubes.
Step 2: Cut the Brie Cheese
- Cut brie cheese into similar-sized, 1/2-inch cubes.
- TIP: Leaving the rind on helps prevent stickiness while handling.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Take a small (4-inch) skewer.
- Thread a piece of pear, followed by a bundle of arugula, then a piece of cheese onto it.
- Place the skewer on a serving platter and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
- TIP: Fold the arugula in half for easier threading.
Step 4: Finish with Walnuts and Glaze
- Gently press a few pieces of chopped walnuts onto the brie cheese so that they stick.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the skewers before serving.
Enjoy these delicious Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers at your next event!
How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers are delightful as appetizers for any gathering. They are visually appealing and packed with flavor, making them a hit among guests.
Pair with Wine
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweetness of pears.
- Sparkling Wine: Bubbly options like Prosecco enhance the lightness of the dish.
Serve on a Charcuterie Board
- Incorporate Variety: Add cured meats, olives, and other cheeses for an impressive spread.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Use rosemary or thyme to elevate the presentation.
Add Dipping Sauces
- Honey Mustard Sauce: A tangy dip that contrasts beautifully with the sweet ingredients.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: A refreshing option that pairs well with the richness of brie.
Garnish with Microgreens
- Visual Appeal: Sprinkling microgreens adds color and a touch of elegance.
- Flavor Boost: They provide a mild peppery taste that enhances the overall dish.
Create Individual Servings
- Mason Jar Presentation: Layer ingredients in small jars for easy grab-and-go servings.
- Mini Skewers: Use shorter skewers for bite-sized portions at cocktail parties.
How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
To ensure your pear and brie cheese salad skewers turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:
- Boldly Cut Ingredients: Ensure pear and cheese cubes are uniform for balanced bites.
- Fresh Arugula Matters: Use fresh baby arugula for the best flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Balsamic Glaze: A high-quality glaze enhances sweetness without overpowering.
- Keep Ingredients Chilled: Serve cold for a refreshing appetizer experience.
Best Side Dishes for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
Pair these skewers with sides that complement their sweet and savory profile. Here are some excellent options:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of cheese.
- Quinoa Salad: Protein-packed quinoa with herbs adds texture and heartiness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a warm contrast to chilled skewers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a flavorful side that rounds out the meal.
- Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta adds freshness and acidity, enhancing flavors.
- Cheese Plate: Include assorted cheeses for variety, creating an indulgent experience.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits can complement the salad skewers’ sweetness beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the cheese rind – Leaving the rind on the brie cheese helps keep it together and makes handling easier. Don’t be tempted to remove it!
- Overcrowding the skewers – Adding too many ingredients can make assembly difficult. Stick to one piece of pear, a small bundle of arugula, and a piece of cheese for each skewer.
- Neglecting the walnuts – Chopped walnuts add a lovely crunch. Make sure to press them onto the brie so they stick well.
- Using unripe pears – Select ripe pears for the best flavor and texture. They should give slightly when pressed but not be mushy.
- Forgetting about presentation – Arrange your skewers artfully on a platter for an inviting display. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds to the visual appeal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 2 days for optimal taste.
Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Not recommended for freezing as the texture may suffer once thawed.
Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop – Place in a lightly greased pan on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, we’ve got you covered.
Can I prepare Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance. Just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.
What can I substitute for brie cheese?
You can use camembert cheese or goat cheese as alternatives if you prefer different flavors.
Are there any variations to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like prosciutto or figs for added flavor and texture.
How do I serve these skewers at a party?
Arrange them on a large platter with extra balsamic glaze on the side for dipping. They make an eye-catching appetizer!
Final Thoughts
These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making them perfect for any gathering. They are versatile too; feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or greens. Try this recipe at your next event—your guests will love it!
Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 skewers 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and savory with these Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers. Perfect for any gathering, these elegant appetizers feature juicy pears, creamy brie, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts. With a drizzle of balsamic glaze, each bite offers a burst of flavor that will impress your guests. Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, they are not only visually stunning but also a nutritious option packed with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal celebration, these skewers are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears
- 8 ounces brie cheese
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Slice pears into quarters, remove seeds and stem, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Cut brie cheese into similar-sized cubes.
- Assemble skewers by threading a piece of pear, followed by arugula and brie cheese onto each skewer.
- Press chopped walnuts onto the brie and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
