If you are looking for a fresh, elegant appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and peppery flavors in every bite, the Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe is an absolute must-try. This charming dish plays beautifully on texture with juicy pears, creamy brie, crisp arugula, and crunchy walnuts all threaded together, then highlighted with a luscious balsamic glaze. It’s refreshingly simple yet sophisticated enough to impress guests or elevate any casual get-together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of fresh, uncomplicated ingredients that each bring a unique flair to your dish. Every item is essential, contributing to the layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color that make these skewers so irresistible.
- 2 pears: Choose ripe but firm pears for a sweet, juicy crunch that won’t turn mushy.
- Approx. 8 ounces brie cheese (~225 grams): The creamy cheese with its delicate rind adds decadence and mild flavor.
- Approx. 2 cups baby arugula: Its peppery bite perfectly counterbalances the sweetness of the fruit and creaminess of the cheese.
- Approx. 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped: They introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.
- Balsamic glaze, to drizzle (or balsamic vinegar): A touch of tangy sweetness that ties all the components together elegantly.
How to Make Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the fruits and cheese
Start by slicing your pears into quarters, removing seeds and the stem for smooth threading later. Then cut these quarters into roughly half-inch cubes, just the right size for bite-sized enjoyment. Next, cut the brie cheese into similar half-inch cubes—leaving the rind on is a clever trick here as it helps avoid stickiness when assembling your skewers.
Step 2: Assemble the skewers
Using small 4-inch skewers, thread a piece of pear first to anchor the flavors. Follow this with a neat bundle of baby arugula folded in half to fit nicely, then add the brie cube—try to pierce through the rind part for easy handling. Repeat this process, placing each finished skewer on your serving platter, until your ingredients are all used up and your platter looks colorful and inviting.
Step 3: Add the finishing touches
For the final layer of texture and flavor, press some chopped walnuts onto the brie cheese so they adhere well. Then generously drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire arrangement, adding a glossy finish and that irresistible tangy sweetness that elevates the whole dish.
How to Serve Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra pop of color and flavor, consider fresh herbs like thyme or mint as garnishes around your skewers. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the complexity without overpowering the natural ingredients.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light salad featuring citrus or fennel. For a heartier spread, include crusty baguette slices or a mild olive tapenade on the side to complement and contrast the creamy, sweet, and peppery components.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the skewers standing upright in a decorative glass or lay them lined up on a rustic wooden board. You can even offer small plates with individual skewers and a tiny bowl of extra balsamic glaze for dipping, turning a simple appetizer into a chic interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To keep the arugula fresh and crisp, it’s best to assemble skewers as close to serving time as possible, but short storage will still maintain flavor integrity.
Freezing
This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the delicate texture of the pears and brie cheese, which can become watery or rubbery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh to capture all the contrasts in texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these skewers are meant to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, prepare smaller batches when hosting to ensure freshness and maximum enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie’s creamy texture and mild tang are perfect here, you could try camembert or even a mild goat cheese for a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
What kind of pears work best?
Look for firm, ripe varieties like Bartlett or Anjou. They hold their shape well and balance sweetness with a subtle crispness that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
While not strictly required, balsamic glaze adds a rich, tangy sweetness that really brings the flavors together. If you don’t have glaze, a drizzle of quality balsamic vinegar works, but the glaze’s syrupy texture coats the skewers beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese that melts well or a firm tofu marinated in herbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How long do these skewers last once assembled?
For the best experience, enjoy them within a few hours of assembling. The arugula may wilt and pears can release juice over time, which might affect texture and presentation.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful and refreshing about the Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or simply craving a vibrant flavor combo, these skewers bring together the best of sweet, creamy, peppery, and crunchy all in one elegant bite. Give them a try and watch how effortlessly this simple recipe becomes a fast favorite!
PrintPear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe
These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers offer a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and peppery flavors perfect for a light appetizer or party snack. Juicy pear cubes, creamy brie cheese, and fresh baby arugula are threaded on skewers, finished with crunchy walnuts and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze for an irresistible bite-sized treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approx. 12 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Skewers
- 2 pears, quartered and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- Approx. 8 ounces brie cheese (~225 grams), cut into 1/2-inch cubes (with rind)
- Approx. 2 cups baby arugula
- Approx. 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (or substitute balsamic vinegar)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears: Slice the pears into quarters and carefully remove the seeds and stem. Cut each quarter into roughly 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring even-sized pieces for easy skewering.
- Cut the Brie Cheese: Slice the brie cheese into 1/2-inch cubes, leaving the rind on to help reduce stickiness when handling the skewers and to add texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers: Take a small 4-inch skewer and thread on one piece of pear, followed by a folded small bundle of arugula (fold arugula in half to make a compact bite), then a piece of brie cheese, ideally skewer through the rind part for better hold. Place the finished skewer on a serving platter.
- Repeat the Process: Continue threading skewers with pear, arugula, and brie until all the pear cubes and cheese are used up, arranging them neatly on the platter.
- Add Walnuts and Finish: Gently press chopped walnuts onto the brie cheese on each skewer so they stick nicely. Finally, drizzle balsamic glaze generously over all skewers for a tangy, sweet finishing touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Present the skewers immediately or chill briefly before serving for a fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s easy to share.
Notes
- Leaving the rind on the brie cheese helps reduce stickiness and adds a nice texture contrast.
- Folding the arugula makes it easier to skewer and bite-sized.
- If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a good quality balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- Store any leftover skewers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and consume within one day for best freshness.
- These skewers are best served fresh as the pears can oxidize and brie can soften over time.