Irresistible Roasted Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese

Roasted Stuffed Dates are an unforgettable appetizer that combines the sweetness of dates with the creaminess of goat cheese and the crunch of walnuts. With a Mediterranean flair, these delightful bites are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible treats!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Stuffed Dates

There are countless reasons to adore Roasted Stuffed Dates. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy evenings or last-minute parties. Second, this dish is versatile, allowing for both sweet and savory variations. Whether you prefer stuffed dates with cheese or a touch of bacon, there’s a filling for everyone.

Moreover, the combination of textures—from the chewy Medjool dates to the crunchy nuts—creates a satisfying bite. Not to mention, these baked stuffed dates can be made healthy by choosing low-fat cheese or skipping the honey drizzle. They also cater to various diets, including vegetarian options. Lastly, they are perfect for serving at parties, impressing guests with their gourmet appeal and delicious flavors.

Ingredients for Roasted Stuffed Dates

Gather these items:

• 12 pieces Medjool Dates (Use pitted dates for hassle-free enjoyment.)
• 6 ounces Goat Cheese (Feel free to swap with cream cheese for a different flair.)
• 1 cup Walnuts (Can be substituted with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary (Dried rosemary works well if you’re in a pinch.)
• 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Fresh is best, but bottled juice can save time.)
• 1 tablespoon Orange Juice
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (An optional spice that adds warmth.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances every bite.)
• 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a good alternative.)
• 2 tablespoons Hot Honey (Maple syrup makes a tasty substitute.)

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Step 2: Slice open each Medjool date lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through. Fill each one with 1–2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese.
3. Step 3: Arrange the stuffed dates snugly in a baking pan.
4. Step 4: Mix the topping by combining chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest, and juice in a bowl. Add ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil, stirring until well combined.
5. Step 5: Spoon the walnut mixture generously over each stuffed date.
6. Step 6: Bake for 15 minutes until the dates are warm and the topping is slightly toasted.
7. Step 7: Let sit for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. Drizzle with hot honey before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Roasted Stuffed Dates

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different fillings for gourmet stuffed dates.
• Make sure the dates are pitted before stuffing to avoid any mishaps.
• For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the walnut topping.
• Remember, these dates can be made ahead of time and reheated!

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Here are a few serving ideas:

• Pair with a cheese platter for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer them as part of a charcuterie board; they add an elegant touch.

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Stuffed Dates

To store any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This dish is not only delicious but also great for meal prep, allowing you to have gourmet flavors ready at a moment’s notice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Stuffed Dates

What’s the secret to perfect Roasted Stuffed Dates?

The key to perfect Roasted Stuffed Dates is using high-quality Medjool dates and ensuring they are pitted before stuffing. Choosing the right filling, like goat cheese, enhances the flavor profile and adds a creamy texture.

Can I make Roasted Stuffed Dates ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed dates in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven before serving to bring back that warm, delightful flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Roasted Stuffed Dates?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overfill the dates and always preheat your oven. Also, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent burning the nuts or cheese.

Variations of Roasted Stuffed Dates You Can Try

Here are some exciting variations:

• Try adding crispy bacon for a savory stuffed dates option.
• Create a vegetarian stuffed dates recipe by using only cheese and herbs.
• For a sweet twist, incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits into the stuffing.

For more delicious recipes, check out our appetizer category or learn how to make spaghetti with garlic and oil for a perfect pairing. You can also explore Mediterranean chickpea salad for a refreshing side dish.

Irresistible Roasted Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these Roasted Stuffed Dates that blend creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts for an unforgettable appetizer.

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Ingredients

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• 12 pieces Medjool Dates (Use pitted dates for hassle-free enjoyment.)
• 6 ounces Goat Cheese (Feel free to swap with cream cheese for a different flair.)
• 1 cup Walnuts (Can be substituted with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary (Dried rosemary works well if you’re in a pinch.)
• 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Fresh is best, but bottled juice can save time.)
• 1 tablespoon Orange Juice
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (An optional spice that adds warmth.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances every bite.)
• 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a good alternative.)
• 2 tablespoons Hot Honey (Maple syrup makes a tasty substitute.)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Slice open each Medjool date lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through. Fill each one with 1–2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese.
3. Arrange the stuffed dates snugly in a baking pan.
4. Mix the topping by combining chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest, and juice in a bowl. Add ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil, stirring until well combined.
5. Spoon the walnut mixture generously over each stuffed date.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until the dates are warm and the topping is slightly toasted.
7. Let sit for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. Drizzle with hot honey before serving.

Notes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 stuffed dates
• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Protein: 4 g