Description
Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates combine Mediterranean richness with elegant simplicity. Creamy cheese nestled in sweet fruit creates an irresistible appetizer that promises delightful flavor contrasts and sophisticated culinary pleasure for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 3 ounces (85 grams) feta cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- ¾ cup (75 grams) shredded Parmesan cheese
Stuffing and Herbs:
- ⅓ cup (40 grams) walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons scallions
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or arugula)
Base and Seasonings:
- 10 ounces (280 grams) pitted Medjool dates, sliced open on one side
- 1 ½ teaspoons olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
Topping:
- Honey, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even roasting.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine chopped walnuts, finely minced fresh rosemary, thinly sliced scallions, chopped parsley, extra virgin olive oil, pure honey, freshly grated orange zest, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a fragrant and textured topping mixture.
- Prepare two separate vessels: one with liquid honey and another with finely shredded Parmesan cheese for coating the feta.
- Delicately dip each feta piece first into the honey, ensuring a light and even coating, then roll in the Parmesan cheese to create a crisp exterior.
- Carefully split open each Medjool date, removing the pit if not already done, and gently nestle the honey and Parmesan-coated feta inside.
- Arrange the stuffed dates in a single layer within a ceramic or glass baking dish, maintaining some space between each piece.
- Evenly distribute the prepared walnut-herb topping over the stuffed dates, covering them generously.
- Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 18 minutes, watching for a golden-brown topping and heated through dates.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle additional honey over the top for a glossy, sweet finish.
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing guests to enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors.
Notes
- Select Medjool dates for their large size and soft, caramel-like sweetness, ensuring easy stuffing and maximum flavor.
- Prepare ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and create a stress-free appetizer experience.
- Toast walnuts briefly before mixing with herbs to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the topping.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley for a vibrant, aromatic boost that elevates the overall taste profile.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the warm, gooey cheese and crispy parmesan coating at its peak deliciousness.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage to complement the rich, sweet, and savory elements of this elegant appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg