Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful and easy appetizer perfect for any occasion. Bursting with fresh flavors, they combine the sweetness of pears with creamy brie and peppery arugula, making them a standout dish at parties or gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a fancy dinner, these skewers will impress your guests with their vibrant presentation and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these tasty skewers in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet pears, creamy brie, and crunchy walnuts create a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers as an appetizer or serve them as part of a charcuterie board for a more elaborate spread.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers of ingredients on skewers make for an attractive addition to any table setting.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and nuts, these skewers are not only delicious but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: These are crucial for assembling the salad skewers easily and neatly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for both the pears and brie cheese, enhancing your presentation.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.

Ingredients

To prepare these delicious Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh Produce

• 2 pears
• Approx. 2 cups baby arugula

Cheese

• Approx. 8 ounces brie cheese (~225 grams)

Nuts

• Approx. 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped

Condiment

• Balsamic glaze, to drizzle (or balsamic vinegar)

How to Make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

1. Slice pears into quarters and remove seeds and stem.
2. Cut quarters into roughly 1/2-inch cubes.

Step 2: Cut the Brie Cheese

1. Cut brie cheese into similar-sized, 1/2-inch cubes.
   TIP: I found that leaving the rind on made the skewers a little less sticky to handle!

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Take a small (4-inch) skewer and thread on one piece of pear, followed by a bundle of arugula, then add a piece of cheese.
2. Place the skewer on a serving platter and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
   TIP: Fold the arugula in half to make it a smaller bundle when threading onto the skewer!

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Gently press a few pieces of chopped walnuts onto the brie cheese so that they stick.
2. Drizzle balsamic glaze over top of the assembled skewers and enjoy!

How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

These pear and brie cheese salad skewers are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Below are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your presentation and flavor.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Combine the skewers with cured meats, crackers, and fruit for a stunning display.
• Add small bowls of dips like honey or mustard to complement the flavors.

As a Cocktail Party Appetizer

• Serve these skewers on individual plates for easy grabbing.
• Pair with signature cocktails to enhance the taste experience.

With Fresh Breads

• Present alongside warm baguettes or artisan rolls.
• Guests can enjoy them together, spreading the brie on bread for added indulgence.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh mint or basil on top of the skewers for a pop of color and flavor.
• This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall presentation.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

To ensure your pear and brie cheese salad skewers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pears: Look for pears that yield slightly when pressed, ensuring they are sweet and juicy.
• Use chilled brie: Keeping brie slightly chilled makes it easier to cut into cubes without getting too sticky.
• Alternate ingredients: Mix up the order of ingredients on each skewer for visual appeal.
• Drizzle just before serving: Apply balsamic glaze right before serving to keep the skewers fresh and vibrant.
• Wrap in prosciutto: For an extra layer of flavor, wrap slices of prosciutto around the pear before threading onto the skewer.

Best Side Dishes for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your pear and brie cheese salad skewers can elevate your appetizer spread. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the pears.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a warm contrast to the cool skewers.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide a hearty option alongside your light appetizer.
4. Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats offer a variety of flavors that pair well with fruity notes.
5. Savory Scones: Herb or cheese scones make a delicious addition, balancing sweet and savory elements.
6. Fruit Platter: An assortment of fresh fruits enhances the theme while keeping it light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps when preparing your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not using ripe pears: Ensure your pears are perfectly ripe for the best flavor. Unripe pears can be hard and lack sweetness.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Avoid piling too many ingredients on one skewer. This can make them difficult to eat. Keep it simple with one piece of each ingredient per skewer.
• Skipping the balsamic glaze: Don’t skip the drizzle of balsamic glaze! It adds a delightful contrast between sweet and savory, enhancing the overall taste.
• Ignoring ingredient size uniformity: Cut your pear and cheese into similar-sized cubes. This helps in even cooking and makes for a more aesthetically pleasing presentation.
• Forgetting to toast walnuts: Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor. Just a minute or two in a dry pan will do wonders!
• Assembling too early: If you’re making these skewers ahead of time, wait until just before serving to add the balsamic glaze, so they don’t get soggy.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the balsamic glaze separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

• It’s best not to freeze these skewers as they lose texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 30 seconds; check frequently.
• Stovetop: Lightly warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, turning gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers that might help you out.

How do I make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers vegan?

You can replace brie cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.

Can I use different nuts in my skewer recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds according to your preference.

What is the best way to prepare pears for skewering?

Slice pears into quarters, remove seeds, then cut into cubes. Ensure they are ripe for better flavor!

Can I prepare these skewers in advance?

Yes, you can prep all the ingredients ahead but assemble them just before serving for the best texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering. You can customize them by adding different fruits or cheeses based on what you enjoy. Give them a try at your next party; they’re sure to impress!