Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
These Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer combining the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted walnuts. Enhanced with optional honey drizzle, balsamic glaze, and fresh thyme, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures for parties or elegant snacks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates (serves 4 as an appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dates
- 12 Medjool dates (pitted)
Filling
- 4 oz goat cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, toasted)
Optional Toppings
- 1 tablespoon honey (for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: If the Medjool dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit, ensuring the date remains intact for stuffing.
- Mix Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and toasted chopped walnuts or pecans. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well incorporated and creamy with bits of nuts evenly distributed.
- Stuff Dates: Using a small spoon or your fingers, gently stuff each date with the goat cheese and walnut mixture, pressing lightly to fill the cavity without breaking the date.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Arrange the stuffed dates neatly on a serving platter. If desired, drizzle with honey and balsamic glaze for added sweetness and complexity. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a fragrant, herbal touch.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed dates immediately for best texture and flavor. Alternatively, refrigerate for up to one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and keep them fresh.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for their large size and natural sweetness which holds the filling well.
- Softening the goat cheese beforehand makes stuffing easier and creates a creamier texture.
- Toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Honey and balsamic glaze are optional but add a nice balance of sweet and tangy notes.
- Keep stuffed dates refrigerated if not serving immediately; consume within a few hours for the best taste.
Keywords: goat cheese stuffed dates, appetizer, Medjool dates, goat cheese recipes, easy party snacks, stuffed dates with nuts
Find it online: https://zarameals.com/goat-cheese-stuffed-dates-recipe/
