Stuffed Dates
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Servings
8 people
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Calories
2275 kcal
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Course
Appetizer
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Cuisine
Mediterranean
Stuffed Dates
Description
Stuffed Dates feature Medjool dates carefully pitted and halved, then filled with soft goat cheese that provides a tangy creaminess that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the dates. Walnut pieces add a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the filling. A drizzle of warmed honey adds moisture and a subtle floral sweetness, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper adds a mild heat element, enhancing complexity. The dates can be served at room temperature or warmed to soften the fruit and mellow the cheese.
Serving these dates as finger food at gatherings offers a balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in a single bite. They can be plated individually or as part of a cheese board alongside other nuts and fruits. Variations include stuffing with manchego cheese and sliced apples with fig jam or using nut butters and chocolate chips for different flavor profiles.
The recipe allows for make-ahead preparation by refrigerating the assembled dates in a single layer, then bringing them to room temperature before serving. For a warm presentation, baking the stuffed dates at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes softens the fruit and gives the cheese a slight color before finishing with honey and pepper flakes.
Ingredients
- 20 date large, Medjool
For Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates:
- 4 ounces goat cheese at room temperature
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup walnut pieces
- honey for garnish, warmed
- red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the pit. Cut the Medjool dates in half length-wise and remove the pit.
- Stuff the dates. Open the dates and fill the cavity with goat cheese, then top with the walnut (just gently push the walnut a bit into the goat cheese filling). Drizzle a little honey and finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper, if using. Transfer to a serving platter (See notes if serving warm).
Notes
- Assemble the stuffed dates a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator in a single layer for ease of serving later.
- Before serving, bring refrigerated dates closer to room temperature for best texture and flavor.
- To serve warm, bake filled dates at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes, then add honey and pepper flakes just before serving.
- For alternatives, try manchego cheese with Granny Smith apple slices and fig jam or peanut butter with almond butter or tahini paired with chocolate chips.
- Feta cheese can be used along with sun-dried tomatoes, basil chiffonade and red pepper flakes for a savory variation.
- Whole shelled nuts can be used directly inside the dates without chopping.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 2275 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 227.5kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 45.5g | 15% |
| Protein | 4.3g | 9% |
| Fat | 5.5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3g | 12% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8g | 11% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 6.5mg | 2% |
| Sodium | 52.8mg | 2% |
| Potassium | 437.4mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 4.3g | 17% |
| Sugar | 40.1g | 80% |
| Vitamin A | 236.6IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 0.05mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 61.8mg | 6% |
| Iron | 0.9mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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