Ingredients
Dates and Filling
- 1 (12-oz.) package pitted Medjool dates
- 1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese, softened to room temperature
Walnut Mixture
- 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
Garnish
- A drizzle of hot honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375ºF to get it ready for roasting the stuffed dates.
- Prepare the dates: Using a small sharp knife, carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise without cutting through completely. Gently open each date and stuff with 1 to 2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese.
- Arrange the dates: Place the stuffed dates evenly in a 9×9-inch baking pan, round cake pan, or small baking sheet to prepare for baking.
- Make the walnut topping: In a small bowl, combine finely chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest and juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly to create a well-blended topping.
- Top the dates: Spoon the walnut mixture evenly over the goat cheese-stuffed dates, ensuring each is generously covered.
- Bake the dates: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese softens and the walnut topping is fragrant.
- Rest and serve: Remove the dates from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Transfer to a serving platter and, if desired, drizzle with hot honey for a sweet finish. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Softening goat cheese to room temperature makes stuffing easier and ensures a creamy texture.
- Medjool dates are ideal due to their large size and natural sweetness, perfect for stuffing.
- Fresh rosemary and orange zest add aromatic freshness to contrast the rich goat cheese.
- Drizzling with hot honey is optional but adds a delightful spicy-sweet touch.
- Ensure not to slice dates all the way through to keep the filling intact while baking.
- This dish can be served as an appetizer or a sophisticated snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
