These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a picnic, or simply looking for a quick appetizer, these skewers fit the bill. The combination of sweet pears, creamy brie cheese, and peppery arugula creates an irresistible bite. Plus, the added crunch from walnuts and the tangy drizzle of balsamic glaze make them truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: These skewers take just 20 minutes to whip up, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: The pairing of sweet pears with rich brie and zesty balsamic glaze offers a unique taste experience.
- Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a light snack; they can be served warm or cold.
- Health Benefits: Packed with fresh ingredients like arugula and walnuts, they add nutrition to your appetizer spread.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers on each skewer make for an impressive display that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s helpful to gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Small skewers (4-inch)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Small skewers: Perfect size for assembling individual bites that are easy to enjoy at any gathering.
- Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for slicing fruits and cheese while protecting your countertops.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts through pears and brie, which is crucial for presentation and ease of assembly.
Ingredients
To create these delectable pear & brie cheese salad skewers, gather the following 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 makes the skewers less sticky to handle!
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Take a small (4-inch) skewer.
- Thread on one piece of pear followed by a bundle of arugula and then a piece of cheese.
- Place each skewer on a serving platter.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
- TIP: Fold the arugula in half to make it easier to thread onto the skewer!
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
- Gently press a few pieces of chopped walnuts onto each piece of brie so they stick well.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of all skewers before serving.
Enjoy these pear & brie cheese salad skewers as a stunning appetizer that your guests will love!
How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers are a delightful addition to any gathering. They are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor, making them perfect for various occasions.
As Appetizers
- Serve these skewers on a large platter as a colorful appetizer before the main course.
- Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
With Wine
- Match the skewers with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavors of the pears and brie.
- Consider a light rosé for a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of the dish.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Include these skewers on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats and cheeses.
- Add fruits like grapes or figs to provide variety in flavors and textures.
For Picnics
- Pack these skewers in portable containers for an easy picnic treat.
- Pair them with crusty bread or crackers for a more filling meal option.
How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
To make your pear and brie cheese salad skewers truly special, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe pears: Select pears that are firm yet slightly soft to ensure sweetness and ease of cutting.
- Use fresh arugula: Fresh arugula adds vibrant color and peppery flavor; avoid wilted greens for the best presentation.
- Cut uniform pieces: Ensuring that the pear and cheese cubes are similar in size helps create balanced bites.
- Garnish creatively: Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts or herbs like basil on top of the skewers for added flair.
- Serve chilled: These skewers taste best when served cold, so refrigerate them before serving.
- Experiment with glazes: While balsamic glaze is delicious, try variations like honey or fig balsamic for unique twists.
Best Side Dishes for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette enhances the fresh flavors without overpowering them.
- Cheese Platter: Offer additional cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar to complement the brie’s creaminess.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an earthy contrast to the sweet flavors of the skewers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide warmth and heartiness alongside this fresh appetizer.
- Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned grilled shrimp can introduce a protein element that pairs well with the skewers.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad can bring healthy grains into your meal while enhancing texture contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making pear and brie cheese salad skewers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using Overripe Pears: Overripe pears can become mushy on the skewers. Choose firm pears for a better texture.
- Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: Failing to prep your ingredients can lead to a chaotic cooking experience. Take time to slice the pears and cheese before assembling.
- Ignoring Skewer Size: Using skewers that are too long or too short can make assembly difficult. Opt for 4-inch skewers for perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Skipping the Balsamic Glaze: The glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties everything together. Don’t skip this step; drizzle it generously!
- Not Washing Arugula: Dirty arugula can ruin the freshness of your dish. Ensure you wash and dry the arugula thoroughly before using it in the skewers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep leftover skewers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- It’s not recommended to freeze these skewers as the ingredients may lose their texture.
- If necessary, individually wrap each skewer tightly and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.
Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 15 seconds until warmed, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the skewers gently for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about pear and brie cheese salad skewers.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is delicious, you can substitute it with goat cheese or camembert for unique flavors.
How do I customize my Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers?
You can add other ingredients like prosciutto, figs, or different nuts for added flavor and texture!
What should I serve with the skewers?
These skewers pair well with wine, charcuterie boards, or fresh fruit platters, making them versatile appetizers.
Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours before your event and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
These pear and brie cheese salad skewers are not only quick and easy but also offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that your guests will adore. With simple ingredients, you can customize them to suit any occasion or palate. So why not give them a try? You might just find your new favorite appetizer!
Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 skewers 1x
Description
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, an elegant appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. Ideal for gatherings or casual picnics, these skewers feature juicy pear chunks paired with creamy brie and peppery arugula, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The added crunch of walnuts elevates each bite, making them a standout choice for any occasion.
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 stems, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Cut brie cheese into cubes of similar size (keeping the rind on helps with handling).
- On a small skewer, thread one piece of pear, followed by arugula, then brie. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Press chopped walnuts onto the brie pieces and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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