Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted Stuffed Dates are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of Medjool dates with creamy goat cheese and a crunchy walnut topping. They are an excellent choice for parties, holiday gatherings, or as an everyday snack. This dish stands out for its unique flavor profile and easy preparation, making it a favorite among many!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet dates, creamy cheese, and nutty walnuts creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Option: Perfect for appetizers at parties or as a sophisticated snack.
• Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients from walnuts and dates, this dish is both tasty and good for you.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these stuffed dates warm for an elegant touch that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here’s what you’ll need to create Roasted Stuffed Dates.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Oven
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Essential for even cooking of the stuffed dates, ensuring they are perfectly roasted.
• Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the walnut mixture easily without mess.
• Knife: Useful for slicing the dates and preparing other ingredients.

Ingredients

To make Roasted Stuffed Dates, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dates

• 12 oz pitted Medjool dates
• 4 oz goat cheese, room temperature

For the Topping

• 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 orange (zest and 2 teaspoons juice)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

• Hot honey for drizzling

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

1. Slice each Medjool date lengthwise to create an opening.
2. Fill each date with 1-2 teaspoons of goat cheese.

Step 3: Make the Walnut Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine:
2. Finely chopped walnuts
3. Minced fresh rosemary
4. Orange zest and juice
5. Cinnamon
6. Sea salt
7. Olive oil

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Arrange the stuffed dates in a baking pan.
2. Top each date with the walnut mixture evenly.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.
3. Drizzle with hot honey just before serving warm.

With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious Roasted Stuffed Dates ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted stuffed dates make an elegant and delicious appetizer, perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your presentation and flavor profile.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or mint on top for a burst of color and freshness.

On a Cheese Board

• Include on a Cheese Platter: Pair these dates with various cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, to create a delightful contrast of flavors.

Accompanied by Dip

• Serve with a Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip can complement the sweetness of the dates and add creaminess.

With Nuts

• Add Extra Nuts: Scatter additional walnuts or pistachios around the platter for crunch and visual appeal.

Paired with Fruits

• Serve with Fresh Fruits: Include slices of apple or pear to balance the rich flavors of the stuffed dates.

How to Perfect Roasted Stuffed Dates

To ensure your roasted stuffed dates turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Selection of Dates: Choose plump, soft Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness.
• Bold Goat Cheese Temperature: Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature for easy stuffing.
• Bold Even Baking: Arrange dates evenly in the baking pan to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Bold Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff the dates; 1-2 teaspoons of cheese is sufficient to prevent spillage during baking.
• Bold Resting Time: Allow the stuffed dates to rest after baking for better flavor melding before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted stuffed dates pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their sweet and savory flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can provide freshness against the rich stuffed dates.
2. Hummus Platter: Serve with different hummus flavors for added taste and texture variety.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring smoky notes that balance sweetness.
4. Bruschetta with Tomato Salsa: The acidity from tomatoes contrasts nicely with the sweetness of dates.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad can add heartiness and nutrition, making it a filling side.
6. Olive Tapenade Crostini: This salty spread on toasted bread adds depth alongside the sweet bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Roasted Stuffed Dates, some common pitfalls can affect the final result. Here are key mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale dates – Fresh Medjool dates enhance flavor and texture. Check for softness and a sweet aroma before purchasing.
• Overstuffing – While it’s tempting to add lots of goat cheese, overfilling can cause the dates to burst during baking. Aim for 1-2 teaspoons per date.
• Neglecting seasoning – Failing to properly season the walnut mixture can lead to bland flavors. Don’t skip the cinnamon and sea salt; they elevate the dish.
• Skipping resting time – Allowing the stuffed dates to rest after baking helps flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step; five minutes makes a difference!
• Not using parchment paper – Placing dates directly on a baking pan may result in sticking. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Roasted Stuffed Dates

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Roasted Stuffed Dates

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Roasted Stuffed Dates?

Roasted Stuffed Dates are sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese, topped with a flavorful walnut-rosemary mixture, and drizzled with hot honey.

Can I customize my Roasted Stuffed Dates?

Absolutely! You can swap goat cheese for cream cheese or use different nuts like almonds or pecans based on your taste preferences.

How do I make my Roasted Stuffed Dates spicy?

To add some heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the walnut topping before baking.

How long do Roasted Stuffed Dates last?

When stored properly, Roasted Stuffed Dates last about three days in the refrigerator and up to two months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Stuffed Dates are an excellent appetizer that combines sweetness and savory flavors, making them perfect for any gathering. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings or toppings based on your taste. Try this delightful recipe at your next event!