Roasted Stuffed Dates

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that’s sure to impress your friends and family, look no further than these Roasted Stuffed Dates! This recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. The combination of sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese, topped with a crunchy walnut and rosemary mix, creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, these stuffed dates are an easy yet elegant choice.

Not only are they delicious, but they also come together in just about 30 minutes! Imagine serving these warm, aromatic bites straight from the oven. They are perfect for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or even as a fun snack while watching your favorite show. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious appetizer ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: These Roasted Stuffed Dates have a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dates ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Perfect for busy hosts!
• Impressive presentation: The combination of colors and textures makes this dish visually appealing, making it look like you spent hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile flavors: You can easily customize the filling or toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home or can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make these delightful Roasted Stuffed Dates:

For the Stuffed Dates

• 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

For the Topping

• 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

For Garnish

• A drizzle of hot honey for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some tasty variations to consider:

• Swap the cheese: Try using feta or cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the walnut mixture for a spicy kick.
• Nut alternatives: Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Fruit infusion: Add chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to the stuffing for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Using a small sharp knife, carefully slice open each date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently break open each date and fill it with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese. Arranging them in a baking pan allows for even cooking and easy serving later on!

Step 2: Make the Walnut Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the finely chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil. This mixture adds a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy stuffed dates. Make sure everything is well combined so every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Spoon the walnut topping generously over each stuffed date before transferring the pan to your preheated oven. Bake them for about 15 minutes until they’re warmed through and slightly golden on top. After removing them from the oven, let them sit for about five minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Drizzle with hot honey if you desire that extra touch of sweetness!

Now you’re ready to serve these irresistible Roasted Stuffed Dates warm and watch as everyone raves about how delicious they are! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Stuffed Dates

Making Roasted Stuffed Dates is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your appetizer is not only delicious but truly impressive!

• Choose the right dates: Opt for Medjool dates as they are sweeter and have a delightful chewy texture, making them perfect for stuffing. Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Soften the cheese: Letting the goat cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it will make it much easier to handle and fill into the dates. This helps achieve a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Experiment with nuts: While walnuts add a lovely crunch and flavor, feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Different nuts can bring unique tastes and textures to the dish!
• Mind the baking time: Keep an eye on your stuffed dates while they bake. You want them warm and slightly caramelized but not overly dried out. Adjusting baking time based on your oven’s calibration will make a big difference.
• Drizzle wisely: If you’re adding hot honey as a garnish, start with a small drizzle. It’s easy to add more if needed but difficult to take away if you’ve overdone it!

How to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Presenting your Roasted Stuffed Dates beautifully can elevate their appeal even more! Here are some ideas for serving this delectable appetizer.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling some additional chopped rosemary or parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the visual appeal.
• Citrus zest: A sprinkle of extra orange zest not only looks stunning but also brightens up the flavors, making each bite even more refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Hummus: Creamy hummus serves as a great dip alongside the stuffed dates, providing a contrast in texture and flavor that guests will love.
• Crispy Pita Chips: These are perfect for scooping up any leftover filling or hummus! Their crunchiness pairs wonderfully with the soft, sweet dates.
• Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery contrast that balances out the richness of the stuffed dates.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serving roasted seasonal vegetables on the side complements the warm flavors of the dish while adding nutrition and color to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Stuffed Dates will not just be an appetizer but a highlight of any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Stuffed Dates are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors without any last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed dates to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange stuffed dates in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
• Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Roasted Stuffed Dates, you’re in the right place!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese for stuffed dates?

Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

How do I make Roasted Stuffed Dates ahead of time?

You can prepare the dates by stuffing them with cheese and topping them with the walnut mixture. Store them in the fridge and bake just before serving for optimal taste!

Are Roasted Stuffed Dates suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived products, making it a great option for gatherings with different dietary preferences.

What can I serve with Roasted Stuffed Dates?

These stuffed dates pair wonderfully with a variety of appetizers like hummus, olives, or even a simple Mediterranean salad.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Roasted Stuffed Dates inspires you to create something truly special! These little bites pack a flavorful punch and are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy making these delightful treats and savor every bite. Happy cooking!