Keto New Year's Pear and Gouda Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

These pear and gouda skewers are a quick and easy New Year’s appetizer idea that your guests will love! The pear and gouda pair beautifully with arugula, walnuts, and a rich balsamic glaze. This recipe makes 8 skewers, but can be doubled for a larger serving.

Are pears Keto?

Pears are high in carbohydrates, which isn't ideal for a Ketogenic diet. However, this recipe uses 1 small pear for 8 skewers, adding 2g of net carbs only. Pears can be added to your diet in small quantities to keep the carbs at bay.

What is a balsamic glaze?

It is a reduction made from reducing balsamic vinegar and a sweetener over medium heat until thick. Balsamic glaze is a delicious sauce that can be drizzled on top of many foods. It differs from balsamic vinegar in that it is thicker and thus coats foods well.

How can you customize this recipe?

These pear and gouda skewers have the perfect contrast of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. You can swap out some ingredients for others as long as you maintain a balanced flavor and texture profile. You can replace the pear with granny smith apple, blueberries, or peaches. Instead of gouda, you can use aged cheddar, brie, camembert, Monterey jack, parmesan, or pecorino. We recommend keeping the arugula and balsamic glaze as they are since they’re integral to the appetizer.

Can you prepare this Keto New Year's appetizer ahead of time?

It would be ideal if all Keto New Year's recipes can be prepared ahead of time. Unfortunately, this isn't suitable for all recipes. This recipe is best prepared right before serving. Pears oxidize and turn brown quickly after they're sliced and exposed to air. Even though they still taste good, they're just not very appealing that way. However, you can make the balsamic glaze days in advance and keep it in a jar in the fridge.