Description
These Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates are a delightful appetizer combining sweet Medjool dates stuffed with honey-coated feta cheese and topped with a savory walnut and herb mixture. Roasted to perfection, they offer a warm, sweet, and tangy bite perfect for entertaining or a special snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dates and Cheese
- 10 ounces pitted Medjool dates, sliced open on one side
- 3 ounces feta cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Honey, for drizzling and coating
Walnut and Herb Topping
- 1/3 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons scallions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or arugula)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the stuffed dates.
- Prepare the topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, rosemary, scallions, parsley (or arugula), olive oil, honey, orange zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare the feta cheese: Place honey in a small bowl and shredded Parmesan on a plate. Dip each piece of feta cheese into the honey, ensuring it is coated, then roll or press it onto the Parmesan to cover it evenly.
- Stuff the dates: Carefully slice open each pitted Medjool date on one side to create a pocket. Stuff each date with one piece of the honey and Parmesan coated feta cheese.
- Arrange the dates: Place the stuffed dates evenly in a casserole dish or on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the prepared walnut and herb topping generously over the dates.
- Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the dates are warm and the topping turns golden and fragrant.
- Drizzle and serve: Remove the dates from the oven, drizzle additional honey over them for extra sweetness, and serve warm for a sweet and savory treat.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for their large size and natural sweetness, ideal for stuffing.
- Coating the feta cheese with honey and Parmesan adds a lovely balance of sweetness and umami.
- Feel free to substitute parsley with arugula for a peppery note.
- Serve these warm as an elegant appetizer or a unique snack.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and serve at room temperature or gently warmed.
