Goats cheese stuffed dates

Goats cheese stuffed dates are a delightful and elegant snack perfect for any occasion. These sweet and savory bites are ideal for pre-drinks or as an impressive starter for your Christmas dinner. The combination of creamy goats cheese, crispy turkey bacon, and the rich sweetness of dates creates a flavor profile that is truly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a special treat, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Flavor Explosion: The contrast between sweet dates and savory bacon offers a deliciously complex taste experience.
• Versatile Snack: Great for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves these bite-sized treats; they never last long on the table!
• Healthy Twist: Enjoy a nutritious option with wholesome ingredients that provide energy and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

To create these amazing goats cheese stuffed dates, you will need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking tray
• Sharp knife
• Cold pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps you achieve a smooth and creamy goats cheese mixture effortlessly.
• Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray is crucial for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife is necessary for safely slicing the dates without damaging them.

Ingredients

A decadent snack for pre drinks or pre Christmas dinner.

For the Stuffed Dates

• 20 dates
• 250 g Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 40 g walnuts (roughly chopped)
• 1 tbsp rosemary (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 250 g goats cheese
• 1 orange zest
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Goats cheese stuffed dates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F. This ensures that the goats cheese stuffed dates cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

Using a sharp knife, slice each date lengthways to remove the seed. Be careful not to split them in half; set the pitted dates aside after discarding the seeds.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon Mixture

In a cold pan, add the diced Turkey Bacon. Turn the heat to high and cook for about 3 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add in the chopped walnuts, two-thirds of the rosemary, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the bacon becomes crispy and you achieve a jammy consistency.

Step 4: Blend Goats Cheese Mixture

In your food processor, combine the goats cheese with two-thirds of the orange zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend all ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Dates

Take approximately one teaspoon of the goats cheese mixture and stuff each date. Arrange them on a baking tray or in a baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked turkey bacon mixture over each stuffed date. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle over the remaining rosemary and orange zest before serving. Enjoy these delicious goats cheese stuffed dates warm!

How to Serve Goats cheese stuffed dates

Goats cheese stuffed dates are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, these stuffed dates can be served in various creative ways.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them warm as a delicious starter before the main meal. Their rich flavor pairs well with drinks.

On a Cheese Platter

• Arrange goats cheese stuffed dates on a cheese board alongside assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a stunning presentation.

With Fresh Greens

• Pair the dates with arugula or spinach salad for a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling balsamic glaze over the stuffed dates before serving, enhancing their flavor profile.

As Part of a Tapas Spread

• Include them in a selection of tapas dishes for an impressive Mediterranean-inspired feast.

With Dips

• Offer dips like hummus or tzatziki on the side for guests to enjoy alongside the goats cheese stuffed dates.

How to Perfect Goats cheese stuffed dates

To ensure your goats cheese stuffed dates turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Dates: Select medjool or deglet noor dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture, making them perfect for stuffing.
• Use Creamy Goat Cheese: Opt for smooth goats cheese to make stuffing easier and create a delightful mouthfeel when you bite into them.
• Balance Flavors: Consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or herbs like thyme to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking; they should be warm and slightly gooey but not dried out.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like figs or cranberries in your stuffing for added texture and taste.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve these delights right after baking while they’re still warm and gooey.

Best Side Dishes for Goats cheese stuffed dates

To complement your goats cheese stuffed dates, consider these delicious side dishes. Together, they create an inviting dining experience.

1. Crispy Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the richness of the dates.
2. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a satisfying crunchy texture against the soft goats cheese stuffed dates.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs pair wonderfully as another appetizer option.
4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition to your table, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
5. Fruit Platter: A platter of fresh fruits like figs, apples, or pears adds sweetness and contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
6. Olive Tapenade: This spread enhances flavors with its briny taste and complements the sweetness of the stuffed dates perfectly.
7. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies adds bulk to your meal while remaining light and healthy.
8. Charcuterie Board: Create a small charcuterie board featuring cured meats that will pair beautifully with your goats cheese stuffed dates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making goats cheese stuffed dates, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F before baking.
• Overstuffing the Dates: Adding too much filling can cause the dates to split or overflow. Use about a teaspoon of the goats cheese mixture for each date.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can affect the taste. Ensure all ingredients, especially herbs like rosemary, are fresh for the best flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your dish. Keep an eye on the baking time, as 10 minutes is usually perfect for these stuffed delights.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Add salt and pepper to the goats cheese mixture until it’s just right for your palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked goats cheese stuffed dates in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Freeze unbaked dates on a baking tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 20-30 seconds until warm, but this may make them a bit soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in goats cheese stuffed dates?

You can experiment with other cheeses like cream cheese or feta, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of your dish.

How do I make goats cheese stuffed dates vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute goat cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and omit turkey bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute.

What can I serve with goats cheese stuffed dates?

These delicious bites pair well with cocktails, wine, or as part of an appetizer platter alongside nuts and olives.

Are goats cheese stuffed dates healthy?

They offer a mix of nutrients from dates, cheese, and nuts. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet for optimal health benefits.

Final Thoughts

Goats cheese stuffed dates are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that impress at any gathering. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings based on your preferences. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a snack, these delicious bites are sure to be a hit!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Goats Cheese Stuffed Dates

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x

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Description

Goat cheese stuffed dates are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion. These bite-sized delights feature creamy goat cheese complemented by crispy turkey bacon and the natural sweetness of dates, creating a flavor explosion that will impress your guests. Ideal for festive gatherings, casual get-togethers, or as a sophisticated appetizer before dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to disappear from the table.

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Ingredients

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• 20 dates
• 250 g turkey bacon (diced)
• 250 g goat cheese
• 40 g walnuts (chopped)
• 1 tbsp rosemary (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F.
2. Slice each date lengthwise and remove the seed.
3. In a cold pan, cook diced turkey bacon over high heat for about 3 minutes. Add walnuts, two-thirds of the rosemary, maple syrup, and brown sugar; cook until crispy (about 5 minutes).
4. Blend goat cheese with orange zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
5. Stuff each date with approximately one teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture and arrange them on a baking tray. Top with the turkey bacon mixture.
6. Bake for about 10 minutes until warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed date (approximately 35g)
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg