Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted Stuffed Dates are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion. This delightful dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. With creamy goat cheese and a crunchy walnut topping infused with fresh rosemary, these stuffed dates are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it a quick appetizer option for busy hosts.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet Medjool dates paired with tangy goat cheese create a delicious flavor contrast.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a starter, side dish, or even a healthy snack throughout the day.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful arrangement of stuffed dates topped with walnuts makes for an appealing dish that looks gourmet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to make your Roasted Stuffed Dates effortless. Having the right equipment will make preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9×9-inch or small baking sheet)
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the dates easy without damaging them.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without creating a mess.
• Baking pan: Provides even cooking space for the stuffed dates to ensure they bake perfectly.

Ingredients

Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates with a Rosemary-Walnut Topping and drizzle of hot honey. This stuffed dates recipe is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and sure to impress!

For the Stuffing

• 1 (12-oz.) pkg. pitted Medjool dates
• 1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese (softened to room temperature for easier handling)
• 1/3 cup very finely chopped walnuts
• 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp. orange zest plus 2 tsp. fresh orange juice (from 1 navel orange)
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• A drizzle of hot honey for garnish (optional)

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Using a small sharp knife, slice open each date lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 2: Stuff the Dates

Break open each date slightly and fill with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese. Arrange the stuffed dates in a baking pan or small baking sheet.

Step 3: Prepare the Walnut Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest and juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Bake the Dates

Spoon the walnut mixture over each stuffed date evenly. Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Drizzle with hot honey if desired, then serve warm!

How to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted stuffed dates are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

As a Standalone Appetizer

• Serve the roasted stuffed dates on a beautiful platter for guests to enjoy as they mingle. The warm, cheesy filling makes them irresistible.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair the stuffed dates with a light arugula or spinach salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the sweetness of the dates.

Accompanied by Cheese Board

• Add roasted stuffed dates to a cheese board along with assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits. They add a unique flavor that balances well with salty and creamy cheeses.

Drizzled with Hot Honey

• For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, drizzle hot honey over the stuffed dates just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances their appeal.

With Toasted Baguette Slices

• Serve on toasted baguette slices for an elegant touch. The crunchiness of the bread pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the stuffed dates.

How to Perfect Roasted Stuffed Dates

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

• Choose Quality Dates: Look for plump and soft Medjool dates for the best texture and flavor. Avoid dry or hard varieties.
• Soften Cheese: Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with other ingredients. This ensures easy handling and a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each date with just 1 to 2 teaspoons of cheese mixture. Overstuffing can cause them to burst during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your dates while baking; they should be warm and slightly golden but not burned.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different garnishes like fresh herbs or citrus zest for added color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Stuffed Dates

Roasted stuffed dates pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until crispy; they add vibrant color and texture to your meal.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers freshness that contrasts nicely with the sweet dates.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve alongside different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic for dipping; it adds creaminess that complements the dates.
4. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs provides a nice base that balances the richness of the stuffed dates.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender grilled chicken skewers seasoned simply will provide protein without overshadowing your appetizer.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mini bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer an appealing presentation and additional flavors without being overwhelming.
7. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip spiced with herbs can serve as a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the stuffed dates.
8. Mediterranean Flatbreads: Warm flatbreads brushed with olive oil make an excellent accompaniment; they can be used to scoop up any leftovers!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Stuffed Dates, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold preparation: Forgetting to soften the goat cheese can make stuffing difficult. Always let it sit at room temperature for easier handling.
• Bold overfilling: Stuffing the dates too much can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for 1 to 2 teaspoons of cheese per date.
• Bold uneven baking: Not arranging the dates in a single layer may lead to uneven cooking. Use a flat baking dish to ensure even heat distribution.
• Bold skipping the seasoning: Neglecting the walnut mixture can result in bland flavors. This blend adds texture and enhances the taste, so don’t skip it!
• Bold overlooking garnishing: Skipping the drizzle of hot honey can take away from the dish’s appeal. A little sweetness elevates the overall flavor, so add it before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Roasted Stuffed Dates in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Stuffed Dates

• For longer storage, freeze stuffed dates in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Stuffed Dates

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently (about 30 seconds).
• Stovetop: Place dates in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Stuffed Dates that you might find helpful.

Can I use other types of cheese?

You can certainly substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or feta for different flavor profiles.

How can I customize my Roasted Stuffed Dates?

Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or pistachios and various herbs like thyme or sage for unique flavors.

Are Roasted Stuffed Dates healthy?

Yes! They are packed with natural sugars from dates and healthy fats from nuts, making them a nutritious snack or appetizer.

What should I serve with Roasted Stuffed Dates?

These stuffed dates pair well with cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruits, creating a delightful appetizer platter.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Stuffed Dates are an impressive yet simple appetizer that brings together sweet and savory flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these stuffed dates are sure to be a hit!