Mediterranean Brie and Pear Tapas Board
This Mediterranean Brie and Pear Tapas Board brings together creamy cheese, crisp fruit, and savory accompaniments for a refined yet easy appetizer. It combines the sweetness of ripe pears and honey with the earthy richness of nuts and herbs. Perfect for dinner parties, wine nights, or casual gatherings, this board offers a mix of Mediterranean elegance and rustic charm — all in less than 20 minutes of prep.
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
Cheeses:
1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 oz / 226 g)
(Optional) Additional cheeses: crumbled feta or goat cheese
Fruits:
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
A handful of dried cranberries or figs
Honey:
Hot honey or regular honey, for drizzling
Nuts:
Mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts), lightly toasted or salted
Accompaniments:
Sliced baguette, crackers, or pita bread
Garnish/Other:
Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
Optional: olives or cherry tomatoes for a mezze-inspired touch
Instructions
Prepare the Brie:
Remove the Brie from the fridge about 15–20 minutes before serving to allow it to soften to room temperature for optimal creaminess.
Toast the Nuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the nuts for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Let them cool slightly.
Slice the Pears:
Thinly slice the pears just before assembling to prevent browning. You can lightly brush the slices with lemon juice if preparing ahead.
Arrange the Board:
Place the Brie wheel at the center of a large serving board. Surround it with sliced pears, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or figs, and any extra cheeses.
Add the Accompaniments:
Lay out sliced baguette, crackers, or pita bread around the edges of the board. Add small bowls of olives or cherry tomatoes for color and contrast.
Drizzle and Garnish:
Drizzle the Brie and pears with honey or hot honey. Scatter fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs over the top for aroma and presentation.
Serve:
Serve immediately, ideally with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Tips
Choose Ripe Pears: Bartlett or Anjou pears work best — they’re firm but sweet.
Warm the Brie Slightly: For a gooey texture, place the Brie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes before serving.
Balance Sweet and Savory: Add olives or cherry tomatoes to offset the sweetness of honey and fruit.
Make It Ahead: Assemble most components early, but add pears and honey right before serving.
Add Texture: Combine creamy Brie, crunchy nuts, and crisp pears for variety in every bite.
Include a Knife: A small cheese knife makes cutting and spreading the Brie easier for guests.
Serve at Room Temperature: Cheese tastes best when not chilled.
Try Flavored Honey: Lavender or rosemary-infused honey gives a Mediterranean twist.
Variations
Savory Twist: Use caramelized onions or a balsamic glaze instead of honey.
Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with roasted chickpeas for crunch.
Add Meat: Include slices of prosciutto or salami for a heartier version.
Seasonal Fruit Swap: Use apples, figs, or grapes instead of pears.
Mini Tapas Cups: Serve individual portions in small cups for parties.
Mediterranean Upgrade: Add hummus, marinated artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes to the board.
Vegan Version: Replace Brie with plant-based cashew cheese and skip honey.
Q&A
Q: Can I bake the Brie with the toppings?
A: Yes. Bake the Brie for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), then top with pears, honey, and nuts before serving warm.
Q: What wine pairs best with this board?
A: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled rosé complements the creamy Brie and sweet pears.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep most items early, but add pears and drizzle honey right before serving to keep textures fresh.
Q: How do I prevent pear slices from browning?
A: Toss them lightly in lemon juice to maintain color and freshness.
Q: What if I don’t have Brie?
A: Camembert or triple-cream cheese makes a fine substitute.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Use hot honey or sprinkle crushed chili flakes for a sweet-spicy flavor balance.
Q: Is this served warm or cold?
A: Traditionally served at room temperature, though baked Brie is a cozy option for colder months.
Nutrition
(Per Serving – Approx. 1/6 of the board)
Calories: 320
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 270 mg
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Brie and Pear Tapas Board is a perfect mix of sophistication and simplicity. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory, it captures the essence of Mediterranean entertaining — beautiful, fresh, and effortless. Whether for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy every palate.