Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch are an exquisite treat perfect for any gathering. These flavorful bites blend the sweetness of Medjool dates with a rich cheese filling, topped with a crunchy honey-walnut herb mixture. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these stuffed dates are sure to impress your guests and elevate your appetizer game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time and is simple enough for anyone to master.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The contrast of sweet dates and savory cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for parties, holidays, or as an elegant snack, this dish suits various occasions.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown baked dates topped with honey-walnut crunch look stunning on any platter.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like walnuts and herbs, these bites offer both flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking of the stuffed dates while allowing easy access to serve them.
• Small skillet: Ideal for toasting walnuts, bringing out their nutty flavor without burning them.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively, ensuring a well-blended filling.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Dates

• Medjool dates (12 large) – Sweet and chewy, these are the perfect base for stuffing.
• Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled) – Adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates.
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated) – Brings a nutty richness to the filling.

For the Honey-Walnut Topping

• Walnuts (1/2 cup, chopped) – Provides a delightful crunch.
• Honey (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the walnut topping and adds a glossy finish.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the flavor of the walnuts.
• Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, chopped) – Adds a hint of earthiness to the dish.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

How to Make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Pit the Dates

Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit. This creates a pocket for your delicious filling.

Step 3: Combine Cheeses

In a bowl, mix together the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Dates

Spoon the cheese mixture into each date. Press gently to ensure they are filled properly.

Step 5: Toast the Walnuts

In a small skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add chopped walnuts and toast for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently until they turn golden and fragrant.

Step 6: Add Honey and Thyme

Remove from heat. Stir in honey and chopped thyme into the toasted walnuts. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Top the Dates

Place your stuffed dates on a baking sheet. Drizzle each one generously with the honey-walnut mixture.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. You want them until warm and slightly melted but not overly cooked.

Step 9: Plate and Enjoy

Once done, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm. These stuffed dates are perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch make an excellent appetizer for any gathering. Their sweet and savory profile pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing their delicious flavors.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and crackers to create a balanced spread.
• Add fruits like grapes or figs to complement the sweetness of the stuffed dates.

With Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a light salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• The peppery arugula complements the rich flavors of the dates.

On Toasted Bread

• Spread some cream cheese or ricotta on toasted baguette slices and top with the stuffed dates for an elegant finger food option.
• This adds crunch and enhances the creaminess of the cheese filling.

As a Garnish for Soup

• Use these stuffed dates as a garnish for creamy soups like butternut squash or pumpkin.
• The sweetness from the dates balances well with savory soup flavors.

How to Perfect Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

To achieve the best results with your Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality ingredients: Opt for fresh Medjool dates, high-quality feta, and aged Parmesan for optimal flavor.
• Don’t overstuff: Fill each date generously but avoid overflowing; this ensures even cooking and easier handling.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your cheese mixture before stuffing; add salt or pepper as needed to enhance flavor.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking; remove them once the cheese is warm and slightly melted to prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Pairing side dishes with Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed in olive oil and lemon adds freshness and balances richness.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring smoky flavors that complement the sweet dates.
3. Hummus Platter: Offer different hummus varieties served with pita chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
4. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide a healthy contrast in texture.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies adds protein and fiber to your meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mini bell peppers filled with rice or grains make for colorful additions that match well with the stuffed dates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overstuffing the dates: Stuffing too much cheese into the dates can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for just enough to fill the cavity without overflowing.
• Skipping the toasting: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in taste!
• Not seasoning properly: A pinch of salt and pepper is essential for balancing flavors. Taste your filling before stuffing the dates to ensure it’s seasoned well.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: If your oven isn’t preheated correctly, the cheese won’t melt evenly. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for best results.
• Serving too hot: Allow the stuffed dates to cool slightly after baking. Serving them too hot can mask their flavors and make them difficult to eat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

• Place stuffed dates in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, here are some common inquiries answered.

How do I know when the stuffed dates are done?

The dates are done when they are heated through, and the cheese is warm and slightly melty. This usually takes about 10 minutes in the oven.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch?

These stuffed dates pair well with a variety of dips, cheeses, or even as part of a charcuterie board. They also make delightful appetizers at parties.

Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the dates ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch are not only delicious but also versatile! These sweet and savory bites make perfect appetizers or snacks for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them by experimenting with different herbs or nuts!