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Delicious Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Alyssa

Delicious Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Enjoy Delicious Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates—sweet dates filled with creamy goat cheese for a savory-sweet, irresistible appetizer.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12-oz. pkg. pitted Medjool dates: These dates are the star of the dish, offering a natural sweetness and a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
  • 1 4-oz. log goat cheese (softened): The rich, tangy flavor of goat cheese complements the sweetness of the dates, making it an essential ingredient.
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts: Walnuts provide a nutty crunch and a source of healthy fats. They also add depth to the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary: This aromatic herb enhances the dish with its earthy and fragrant notes helping to balance the sweetness of the dates.
  • 1 tsp. orange zest + 2 tsp. fresh orange juice: The citrus from the orange adds brightness and freshness cutting through the richness of the cheese.
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon: Cinnamon introduces warmth and a hint of spice which elevates the flavor harmony in the dish.
  • 1/4 tsp. sea salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients ensuring each bite is deliciously seasoned.
  • 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: Olive oil not only helps to bind the ingredients together but adds a layer of richness to the dish.
  • Drizzle of hot honey for garnish optional: A drizzle of hot honey adds a kick of sweetness and spiciness to the finished dish, tempting your palate.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This ensures that the dates will roast evenly, caramelizing the natural sugars and making them delectably soft.
  2. Prepare the dates: Carefully slice each date open lengthwise, being cautious not to cut all the way through. Use a teaspoon to fill each date with 1-2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese, making sure it's generously packed to maximize flavor.
  3. Arrange in a baking pan: Place the stuffed dates in a baking pan, spacing them out a bit to ensure even cooking. This step prepares them for their delicious transformation in the oven.
  4. Mix the topping: In a separate bowl, combine 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts, 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary, 1 tsp. orange zest, 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. sea salt, and 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil. Stir well to incorporate the ingredients.
  5. Spoon the mixture: Carefully spoon the walnut and herb mixture over the stuffed dates, distributing it evenly to maximize flavor and crunch.
  6. Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and let the dates bake for 15 minutes. They're ready when they become slightly caramelized and the cheese is warmed through.
  7. Cool and drizzle: Remove the pan from the oven and let the stuffed dates cool for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, drizzle with a bit of hot honey to enhance the flavors with sweetness and a spicy kick.
  8. Serve warm: Transfer the stuffed dates to a serving platter and watch them disappear as your guests rave about this delicious offering!