These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for any gathering. Combining the sweetness of ripe pears with creamy brie and peppery arugula, these skewers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. They serve as an ideal appetizer for parties, picnics, or casual dinners, ensuring your guests will be impressed by their elegant presentation and delicious taste.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Skewers
- How to Make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Step 1: Prepare the Pears
- Step 2: Cut the Brie Cheese
- Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Step 4: Add Walnuts and Drizzle
- How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Pair with Wine
- Add Dipping Sauces
- Serve on a Charcuterie Board
- Garnish Ideas
- How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Best Side Dishes for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I choose the best pears for this recipe?
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- What other ingredients can I add?
- How long do these skewers last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, these skewers are perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of pears pairs beautifully with the richness of brie and the crunch of walnuts.
- Versatile Appetizer: Suitable for various occasions, from formal events to casual get-togethers.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats from walnuts, these skewers are a nutritious choice.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers on each skewer make for an attractive addition to any table setting.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Small skewers (4-inch)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Small skewers: Perfect size for easy handling and serving bite-sized portions.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients without damaging your countertops.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for even-sized ingredients, which enhances the overall presentation.
Ingredients
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers are made with arugula, walnuts, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. They’re such a quick + easy, sweet + savoury party appetizer idea that your guests will love!
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 keep the skewers less sticky when assembling.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Take a small (4-inch) skewer and thread on one piece of pear.
- Add a bundle of arugula next.
- Finally, add a piece of cheese onto the skewer.
- Place each assembled skewer on a serving platter as you go.
- TIP: Fold the arugula in half for easier threading.
Step 4: Add Walnuts and Drizzle
- Gently press a few pieces of chopped walnuts onto each piece of brie so they stick well.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over all skewers before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously crafted Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers at your next gathering!
How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers make for an elegant yet easy appetizer. They are perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, adding a touch of sophistication to your table.
Pair with Wine
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweetness of pears and richness of brie.
- Sparkling Wine: Prosecco or Champagne adds a festive touch and balances the flavors.
Add Dipping Sauces
- Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: Creamy yogurt mixed with fresh herbs can add a refreshing taste.
Serve on a Charcuterie Board
- Cheese Selection: Include a variety of cheeses alongside your skewers for diverse flavor profiles.
- Fruits and Nuts: Fresh fruits and assorted nuts can create a beautiful presentation while complementing the skewers.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh basil or mint for added color and flavor.
- Edible Flowers: These can elevate your serving platter visually and add a unique touch.
How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
To achieve the best results, follow these simple tips when preparing your pear and brie cheese salad skewers.
- Select Ripe Pears: Choose pears that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness.
- Use Fresh Arugula: Opt for fresh arugula rather than packaged, as it has a better flavor and texture.
- Keep Cheese Cold: Chilling the brie until you’re ready to assemble helps maintain its shape during threading.
- Experiment with Drizzles: Try different drizzles like honey or flavored balsamic vinegar for varied tastes.
Best Side Dishes for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
Pairing side dishes with your pear and brie cheese salad skewers can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides balance to the rich flavors of the skewers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs bring warmth and earthiness to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with citrus dressing complements the sweetness of pears beautifully.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy breadsticks offer a delightful crunch alongside creamy cheese.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can provide a hearty option that pairs well with fruity flavors.
- Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits can enhance the freshness of your appetizer selection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using Overripe Pears: Overripe pears can be mushy and hard to skewer. Choose firm, ripe pears for the best texture.
- Skipping the Rind: Removing the rind from brie can make the skewers sticky and hard to handle. Keep the rind on for easier assembly.
- Not Chopping Walnuts: Whole walnuts won’t stick well to the cheese. Always chop them into smaller pieces for better adhesion.
- Forgetting to Fold Arugula: Not folding arugula may result in larger bundles that are difficult to skewer. Fold it in half for a better fit.
- Ignoring Balsamic Glaze Quality: Using low-quality balsamic glaze can affect flavor. Opt for a high-quality glaze for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store skewers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of pears and cheese.
- If you must freeze, wrap each skewer tightly and use within one month.
Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat skewers for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds; check frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm skewers in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers:
How do I choose the best pears for this recipe?
Select firm, slightly ripe pears for perfect texture and sweetness in your skewers.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While brie is delicious, you can also try camembert or goat cheese for a twist.
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to add other nuts like pecans or use different greens such as spinach or kale.
How long do these skewers last?
These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers last up to 3 days when stored properly in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers make a delightful appetizer that combines sweet and savory flavors. They’re quick to prepare and versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. Try adding different nuts or cheeses based on your taste preferences!
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Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 skewers 1x
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors with these Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, an ideal appetizer for any occasion. The sweetness of ripe pears harmonizes beautifully with the creamy richness of brie and the peppery bite of fresh arugula. These elegant skewers are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a delightful addition to your gatherings. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress your guests with this sophisticated finger food that balances healthiness and indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears
- 8 ounces brie cheese
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Slice the pears into quarters, remove seeds and stem, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Cut brie cheese into similar-sized 1/2-inch cubes; leave the rind on for easier assembly.
- On each small skewer, thread one cube of pear, a bundle of arugula, and a piece of brie.
- Gently press chopped walnuts onto each piece of cheese and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (35g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
