This appetizer is a celebration of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the apple complements the tangy cheese, while the endive adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of bitterness. It’s simple to assemble, visually appealing, and offers a sophisticated twist on traditional finger foods. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian-friendly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Belgian endive
Apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
Goat cheese or blue cheese
Walnuts or pecans, chopped and toasted
Honey or balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
Lemon juice (to prevent apple browning)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional garnish)
Directions
Separate and rinse the endive leaves, then pat dry.
Slice the apple thinly and toss with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Spread or place a small amount of goat cheese or blue cheese onto each endive leaf.
Top with a slice or two of apple.
Sprinkle with toasted nuts.
Drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze, if desired.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a festive touch.
Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Makes about 16–20 appetizers, depending on the size of the endive leaves. Prep time: 15 minutes Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Use pear slices instead of apples for a softer, sweeter version.
Swap goat cheese for cream cheese, ricotta, or brie.
Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Use almonds or pistachios instead of walnuts or pecans.
Add a touch of freshly ground black pepper or a pinch of sea salt for contrast.
Storage/Reheating
These appetizers are best assembled fresh, just before serving. If preparing ahead, store the sliced apples in lemon water and keep all components separate. Do not freeze or reheat. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, but the endive may lose its crispness.
FAQs
Can I make the Apple Endive Appetizer ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What type of apple works best?
Crisp, sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best for balance and texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, blue cheese, brie, or ricotta are all great alternatives to goat cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What can I substitute for endive?
Little gem lettuce or romaine hearts can work in a pinch, but they have a different flavor and shape.
How do I keep apples from turning brown?
Toss apple slices with lemon juice immediately after slicing to keep them fresh-looking.
What nuts are best for this recipe?
Toasted walnuts or pecans work best, but almonds or pistachios can also be used.
Should the nuts be toasted?
Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch, but it’s optional.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version.
Conclusion
The Apple Endive Appetizer is a beautiful, simple, and delicious addition to any gathering. With its fresh ingredients and stunning presentation, it’s sure to impress guests while remaining easy to make. Whether for a holiday party or a casual dinner, this appetizer brings elegance and taste to the table with every bite.
The Apple Endive Appetizer is a light, crisp, and elegant bite-sized dish combining sweet apples, slightly bitter endive, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for fall or holiday gatherings, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to assemble for entertaining.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:16–20 appetizers
Category:Appetizer
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
2–3 heads Belgian endive
1 Honeycrisp or Fuji apple, thinly sliced
4 oz goat cheese or blue cheese
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped and toasted
1 tbsp honey or balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
1 tsp lemon juice (to prevent apple browning)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Separate and rinse the endive leaves, then pat them dry.
Thinly slice the apple and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Spread or place a small amount of goat cheese or blue cheese onto each endive leaf.
Top each with a slice or two of apple.
Sprinkle toasted nuts over the top.
Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze, if desired.
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a festive touch.
Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Notes
Use pear slices instead of apples for a sweeter variation.Try cream cheese, ricotta, or brie as alternative cheeses.Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra color and flavor.Use almonds or pistachios for a different nutty profile.Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.
