These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual gathering, these skewers are sure to impress your guests. The combination of fresh pears, creamy brie cheese, and peppery arugula creates a unique appetizer that stands out. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have an elegant dish ready to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of pears perfectly complements the creaminess of brie cheese and the crunch of walnuts.
Versatile Serving Options: These skewers can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a charcuterie board.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and greens, these skewers are not only tasty but also nutritious.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful arrangement on skewers adds visual appeal to your table setting.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your delicious Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

4-inch skewers
Knife
Cutting board
Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

4-inch skewers: Perfectly sized for creating bite-sized portions that are easy for guests to handle.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for clean cuts of both pears and cheese, ensuring even pieces for skewer assembly.
Cutting board: A stable surface to safely chop ingredients without damaging your countertops.

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 handling easier!

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Take a small (4-inch) skewer.
Thread a piece of pear, a bundle of arugula, and then a piece of brie cheese onto it.
Place the skewer on a serving platter and repeat until all cheese and pears are used up.
TIP: Fold the arugula in half for a smaller bundle.

Step 4: Add Walnuts and Drizzle Glaze

Gently press a few pieces of chopped walnuts onto the brie cheese so they stick.
Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop of skewers and enjoy!

How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

These delightful pear and brie cheese salad skewers make for an elegant appetizer at any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your presentation and flavor experience.

Pair with Wine

White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweetness of the pears.
Rosé: The light, fruity notes of a rosé balance the richness of brie.

Add Fresh Herbs

Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors.
Mint: Mint leaves provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory elements.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

Honey: Drizzling honey can amplify the sweetness of the pears.
Mustard Sauce: A tangy mustard sauce offers a zesty kick that pairs well with cheese.

Arrange on a Charcuterie Board

Mix with Meats: Add prosciutto or salami for a savory element next to your skewers.
Include Crackers and Bread: Provide assorted crackers or baguette slices for added texture.

How to Perfect Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

To ensure your pear and brie cheese salad skewers are a hit, consider these simple tips.

Choose Ripe Pears: Select pears that are firm yet slightly soft to yield a juicy bite.
Cut Uniformly: Aim for even-sized pieces of pear and cheese, which makes for easier assembly and uniform cooking if needed.
Use Fresh Arugula: Fresh arugula gives an extra crunch and peppery flavor that elevates the dish.
Assembly Order Matters: Threading arugula between the pear and cheese helps keep everything stable on the skewer.
Store Properly: If not serving immediately, cover them with plastic wrap in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different cheeses or nuts for unique variations on this classic recipe.

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 fantastic options.

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness without overshadowing the skewers’ flavors.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of pears.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad provides heartiness while remaining light and refreshing.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables offer a warm, earthy side that balances well with the creamy brie.
Bruschetta: Crisp bruschetta topped with tomatoes brings a bright acidity that contrasts nicely with the rich cheese.
Fruit Platter: An assortment of fresh fruits can enhance the sweet notes found in your skewers while adding color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

Overcrowding the Skewers: Make sure not to pack too many ingredients on each skewer. This can lead to difficulty in eating and uneven flavors. Keep it simple with one piece of pear, a handful of arugula, and a piece of cheese.
Using Unripe Pears: Choosing unripe pears can result in a bland taste. Always select ripe pears for the best sweetness and flavor. A perfectly ripe pear should yield slightly when pressed.
Skipping the Rinse: Don’t forget to rinse your arugula before use. This helps remove any dirt or grit that might be clinging to the leaves, ensuring a clean and fresh taste in every bite.
Ignoring Cheese Temperature: Using cold brie straight from the fridge can make it tough to cut. Let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before assembling your skewers for easier handling.
Neglecting Presentation: A dish’s appeal is important! Arrange your skewers neatly on a platter and drizzle the balsamic glaze artistically for an eye-catching presentation that will impress your guests.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Consume within this timeframe for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

It is not recommended to freeze these skewers as they may become mushy upon thawing.
The texture of fresh ingredients like arugula and pears does not hold well after freezing.

Reheating Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat skewers for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a non-stick skillet, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers.

How do I choose the right pears?

Select firm, ripe pears that give slightly when pressed. Varieties like Anjou or Bartlett work well for this recipe.

Can I make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a few hours in advance. Just drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for freshness.

What other cheeses can I use instead of brie?

You can substitute brie with goat cheese or camembert for different flavors while still keeping it creamy.

Are there variations for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers?

Absolutely! You can add additional ingredients like prosciutto or substitute walnuts with pecans for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are not only quick and easy but also offer a delightful mix of flavors that will impress any guest. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or herbs based on your preference. Enjoy this versatile appetizer at your next gathering!

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Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings (16 skewers) 1x

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Description

Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a delightful fusion of flavors that effortlessly blend sweet and savory elements, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering. With fresh, juicy pears, creamy brie cheese, and peppery arugula all elegantly assembled on skewers, these bites not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or planned events, this recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Impress your guests with these gourmet bites that are as nutritious as they are delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ripe pears
8 ounces brie cheese
2 cups baby arugula
1/4 cup raw walnuts (chopped)
Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

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Instructions

Prepare the pears by slicing them into quarters, removing seeds, and cutting into 1/2-inch cubes.
Cut the brie cheese into similar-sized cubes (leave the rind on for easier handling).
Assemble the skewers by threading a piece of pear, a handful of arugula, and a piece of brie cheese onto each skewer.
Press chopped walnuts onto the brie and drizzle balsamic glaze over the assembled skewers.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No cooking required
Cuisine: American