Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers

1. Introduction to the Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, elegant, and ridiculously easy appetizer that brings together contrasting textures and sophisticated flavor, Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are your new go-to. This refined twist on a salad transforms juicy pears, creamy Brie cheese, peppery baby arugula, and crunchy walnuts into beautiful, bite-sized skewers—perfect for cocktail parties, holiday tables, brunch spreads, or as a chic starter at any gathering. Drizzled with balsamic glaze for a touch of tangy sweetness, these skewers are just as visually appealing as they are delicious.

One of the biggest benefits of this recipe is its simplicity. With only five main ingredients—ripe pears, Brie cheese, baby arugula, raw walnuts, and a balsamic glaze—these salad skewers can be assembled in minutes, yet they taste like a thoughtfully crafted dish. The combination of the creamy, buttery Brie and the crisp, juicy pear creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The arugula adds a light bitterness and freshness, while the walnuts give just the right amount of crunch and earthiness. Finished with a touch of balsamic glaze, the flavors sing in harmony.

This dish is a prime example of how less can be more, especially when each ingredient is high-quality. For best results, choose pears that are firm but ripe—like Bosc or Anjou—and a creamy Brie that isn’t too runny. If you’re unfamiliar with how to select pears at peak ripeness, USA Pears has a great guide on ripening and storing. And if you want to explore the flavor pairing further, The Flavor Bible is a helpful reference for complementary ingredients.

Whether served on mini skewers or elegant toothpicks, Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are a memorable, no-fuss appetizer that elevates any menu. They’re vegetarian-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and endlessly customizable for the season or your personal taste.

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2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

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3. Advanced Techniques

Choosing the Right Pear Texture and Flavor

Pears ripen from the inside out, so press near the stem to test ripeness. For skewering, choose a firm-ripe pear—it should give slightly but still hold shape when cubed. Bosc pears are sweet and crisp, while Anjou are juicy and versatile. Avoid overly soft pears as they’ll slide off the skewer or become mushy.

Perfecting the Brie Cut

Brie can be sticky to cut, especially when soft. To achieve clean cubes, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Use a thin-bladed knife or dental floss to make clean cuts. If serving to guests unsure about the rind, consider trimming it off for a more universally appealing bite.

Creating Uniform Skewers for Presentation

Uniform size makes for better presentation and easier eating. Try to match the pear and Brie cube sizes. Assemble in the same order for visual consistency. For parties, align skewers in concentric rings or fan shapes on a platter to create a stunning centerpiece.

Upgrading the Balsamic Element

While store-bought balsamic glaze works well, making your own reduction can intensify flavor. Simmer ½ cup of balsamic vinegar with a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup until reduced by half. Let it cool and drizzle sparingly—it adds depth and a beautiful sheen.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Enhance the base recipe with additions like a small fresh basil or mint leaf, a drizzle of honey, or a pinch of sea salt. For fall events, add roasted butternut squash cubes. For savory lovers, wrap the Brie in prosciutto before skewering. These tweaks allow seasonal and flavor flexibility.

See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

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4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Preparing Ahead for Events

You can pre-assemble these skewers up to 2 hours in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add balsamic glaze only right before serving to prevent sogginess or discoloration.

Best Way to Store Leftovers

Leftover skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, though texture may soften. Remove arugula before storing if possible to avoid wilt. Cover tightly and store in a shallow container.

Avoiding Oxidation in Pears

To keep pear pieces from browning, toss them gently in a mixture of water and lemon juice (1 tablespoon juice per cup of water). Pat dry before assembling. This keeps the skewers looking fresh, especially if prepping in advance.

Maintaining Brie’s Texture

Keep Brie cold until just before assembly. If the cheese gets too warm, it may become gooey and hard to skewer. Store finished skewers in a cool space to maintain structure.

Transporting for Potlucks or Parties

Place skewers upright in a deep container with a secure lid. Use foil or parchment paper to separate layers if stacking. Keep a cold pack nearby if traveling more than 30 minutes.

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5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Vegan Alternative

Use a plant-based Brie-style cheese (made from cashews or coconut), and opt for maple balsamic glaze. Choose firm pears and skip the arugula if desired. Walnuts add the richness that balances the vegan version beautifully.

Nut-Free Version

Simply omit the walnuts or replace them with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. These still give a satisfying crunch while keeping the appetizer allergen-friendly.

Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly Adjustment

Use a keto-friendly Brie and skip the balsamic glaze or use a sugar-free version. Replace pears with cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes for an ultra-low-carb variation with similar presentation.

Dairy-Free Adaptation

Try a dairy-free soft cheese alternative (such as almond or soy-based Brie). Ensure it’s firm enough to cube and doesn’t melt at room temperature. Combine with pears and arugula for a fully dairy-free bite.

Gluten-Free Guarantee

The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your balsamic glaze or any added garnishes for hidden gluten or cross-contamination, especially for guests with celiac disease.

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6. FAQs About the Recipe

Can I use other cheeses besides Brie?

Yes! Camembert is a close cousin with a stronger flavor. For a milder taste, try mozzarella pearls or a soft goat cheese rolled into balls. Each creates a different vibe but still pairs well with pears and arugula.

What if my pears are too soft?

If pears are overly ripe, they’re best used for jam or baked recipes. For skewers, slice carefully and use a melon baller to scoop firm chunks from the center. You can also refrigerate them briefly to firm up.

Can I toast the walnuts?

Absolutely. Toasting brings out a richer, nuttier flavor. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Let cool before adding to skewers.

What balsamic glaze should I buy?

Look for one with just vinegar and a natural sweetener—avoid those with high fructose corn syrup. Brands like Colavita or Trader Joe’s offer good options. You can also reduce your own vinegar for a DIY version.

How do I keep arugula from wilting?

Use very fresh arugula and dry it well before assembly. If assembling early, layer arugula between pear and Brie so it’s shielded from direct balsamic contact. Store skewers in a cool, dry container until serving.

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7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers are the ultimate example of an appetizer that’s easy to make but feels elevated. With just a handful of ingredients and no cooking required, they’re perfect for entertaining, yet refined enough for special occasions. The sweet, creamy, crunchy combination hits every flavor note—sweet, salty, tangy, and nutty—all in one perfect bite.

These skewers also shine because of their versatility. You can tweak them for dietary needs, dress them up for formal parties, or keep them casual for a light lunch or wine night. They’re fast to prep, beautiful to present, and always the first to disappear from the platter.

Whether you’re hosting a fall feast, attending a potluck, or just need something quick but fancy, these salad skewers will never let you down. They make healthy feel indulgent, and simple feel special—and that’s what great appetizers are all about.