Name: Irresistible Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Bosc or Bartlett pears (ripe but firm); 8 ounces Brie cheese (can substitute with camembert); 2 cups baby arugula (can substitute with spinach); 1/2 cup raw walnuts (can substitute with pecans or almonds); 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or traditional balsamic vinegar)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of ripe pears mingling with creamy brie wafted through the air, instantly igniting my appetite. These Easy Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers have a way of turning any gathering into a chic affair, and trust me, they’re as simple to make as they are to devour. With just five ingredients and a mere 20 minutes, you’ll have an irresistible appetizer that not only pleases the palate but also adds a delightful splash of color to your table. Perfect for those evenings when you want to impress without the stress, these gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly skewers are a quick triumph that everyone will love. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s skewer some happiness together!

Why are these Pear & Brie Skewers a must-try?

Simplicity Meets Elegance: With only five ingredients, these skewers are a breeze to put together, making them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Flavor Explosion: The sweet pears, creamy brie, and peppery arugula create a symphony of flavors that delight in every bite.

Visual Appeal: These vibrant skewers aren’t just tasty; they also bring stunning color to your table, making them a showstopper for parties.

Versatile Substitutions: Whether you use spinach instead of arugula or mix in different nuts, these skewers can easily adapt to your taste preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Gluten-free and vegetarian, they cater to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time to cut down on stress—just drizzle the balsamic glaze right before serving for a fresh finish. Looking for more ideas? Try pairing them with a refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad for an impressive spread!

Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Ingredients

For the Skewers

Pears – Use Bosc or Bartlett pears for their sweetness; ensure they’re ripe but firm for easy skewering.
Brie Cheese – This adds a creamy texture; you can keep the rind on for less stickiness or switch it out for camembert for a different flavor profile.
Baby Arugula – Offers a peppery bite and vibrant green color; feel free to substitute with milder spinach if you prefer.
Raw Walnuts – Provide a delightful crunch and nutty taste; pecans or almonds also work well as tasty alternatives.
Balsamic Glaze – Elevates the flavor balance with its sweet acidity; if unavailable, traditional balsamic vinegar can be drizzled instead, though glaze is recommended for ease.

Optional Tip: These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are perfect for any occasion, turning simplicity into a gourmet experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Pears
Begin by washing your Bosc or Bartlett pears thoroughly, then slice them into quarters. Carefully remove the seeds and stems, and cut each quarter into 1/2-inch cubes. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure balanced flavors and easy skewering. Set the pear cubes aside on a clean plate to keep them fresh while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cube the Brie Cheese
Next, take your brie cheese and cut it into 1/2-inch cubes, similar in size to the pear pieces. This way, each bite of your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers will feature a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. If you prefer, you can leave the rind on for additional flavor and less stickiness. Place the brie cubes on a separate plate.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Grab some 4-inch skewers, ensuring they are clean and dry. Start by threading a cube of pear onto the skewer, followed by a small bundle of baby arugula, and finish with a piece of creamy brie. Make sure to leave a little space between ingredients for an appealing presentation. Repeat this process until all your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are assembled and visually balanced.

Step 4: Add Crunch and Flavor
Once the skewers are assembled, take your chopped raw walnuts and gently press them onto the exposed brie pieces. This will provide a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the cheese. Follow this by drizzling your skewers with balsamic glaze for an added burst of sweetness and acidity, elevating the overall flavor of your Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the completed Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers on a platter, showcasing their vibrant colors and textures. If you’re making them ahead of time, cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to add the balsamic glaze right before serving to keep everything fresh and delightful. Now, gather your family and friends to enjoy this easy and elegant appetizer!

How to Store and Freeze Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Fridge: Store assembled skewers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to prevent browning. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for maximum freshness.

Room Temperature: If left out at room temperature, the skewers are best consumed within 1 hour to maintain flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: For convenience, prepare the skewers ahead of time, but store them unassembled in the fridge, keeping the ingredients separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze these pear & brie cheese salad skewers as the cheese and perishable ingredients may lose their appealing texture and taste upon thawing.

Expert Tips for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Perfect Pairing: Use ripe but firm Bosc or Bartlett pears; this ensures the skewers hold together without becoming mushy.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment! Try camembert or blue cheese for varied flavor profiles; just ensure the texture complements the pears.
Assembly Advice: Leave a little space between each ingredient on the skewer. This not only enhances presentation but also allows each flavor to shine through.
Avoid Browning: If preparing in advance, cover assembled skewers and refrigerate until serving. Drizzle balsamic glaze just before presentation to keep everything vibrant.
Serving Suggestions: These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers make a great light appetizer at parties; pair them with a refreshing drink for an added touch of sophistication.

What to Serve with Easy Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the fresh flavors of your skewers.

Crispy Baguette Slices: Toasted baguette slices provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for savoring the creamy brie and juicy pears. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil for additional flavor.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and zesty mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the skewers. The acidity of the dressing enhances the sweetness of the pears beautifully.
Savory Quiche: A slice of fluffy quiche, whether it’s spinach and feta or a classic Lorraine, pairs wonderfully for those who want a heartier offering alongside your light appetizers.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon makes for an elegant beverage to cleanse the palate. It’s a delightful way to keep guests hydrated while adding a touch of sophistication.
Cheese Board: Complement the flavors with an assorted cheese board featuring tangy goat cheese and sharp cheddar, providing an array of textures and tastes for the guests to enjoy.
Red Wine: A light red wine like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the skewers. Its fruity notes will enhance the pear without overpowering the dish.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet finish, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries—an easy dessert that adds a playful delight to your gathering, echoing the fruity essence of your skewers.

Variations & Substitutions for Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

Feel free to play around with these delightful skewers and make them your own with these tasty ideas!

Leafy Greens: Substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens to create a milder flavor profile.
Cheese Change: Swap brie for camembert for a bolder flavor, or try blue cheese for a kick that pairs beautifully with pears.
Nutty Twist: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for varying crunch and taste that can elevate each bite.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle on fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that infuses the dish with rustic charm.
Sweet Contrast: Drizzle with honey along with the balsamic glaze to add an extra layer of sweetness that complements the pear’s natural sugars.
Fruit Swap: Get creative by replacing pears with apples for a crisp texture and vibrant flavor that echoes the original recipe.
Extra Crunch: Add toasted seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for an exciting texture contrast that enhances your skewer experience.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a hint of heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the finished skewers for a delightful surprise in every bite.

And while you’re enjoying these Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, how about accompanying them with a refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad to brighten up your meal? Or for a delightful munch, try out the crunchy Pineapple Walnut Salad that pairs wonderfully!

Make Ahead Options

These Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing guests! You can prepare the skewers up to 2 hours in advance by assembling them without the balsamic glaze. Simply store them covered in the refrigerator to prevent the pears from browning. If you’re looking to prep further ahead, you can cube the pears and brie up to 24 hours before serving, keeping them wrapped tightly to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, just drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers, and you’ll have a gorgeous and tasty appetizer ready with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep without sacrificing flavor or quality!

Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers Recipe FAQs

What type of pears should I use for the skewers?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose ripe but firm Bosc or Bartlett pears. They provide a wonderful sweetness and juiciness while maintaining the integrity of the skewer. Avoid overly soft pears, as they might become mushy during assembly.

How should I store leftover skewers?
Very! If you have any leftover Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers, cover them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. This will prevent the ingredients from browning and maintain their freshness. It’s best to drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving for a vibrant finish!

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Of course! You can assemble the skewers within 2 hours of serving. However, if you need to prepare them ahead of time, I recommend keeping the ingredients separate in the fridge and only assembling them just before your event. This way, you avoid browning and keep everything looking fresh.

Can I freeze the skewers?
No, it’s not recommended to freeze these Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers. Freezing can cause the texture of the brie cheese and the other fresh ingredients to become unappealing once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!

Are these skewers suitable for all dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These skewers are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making them a fabulous choice for a variety of dietary needs. However, if guests have nut allergies, you may want to substitute the walnuts with seeds or simply skip them altogether.