Goats cheese stuffed dates

Goats cheese stuffed dates are a delightful and indulgent snack perfect for various occasions, from pre-drinks to festive dinners. These sweet and savory bites combine the rich creaminess of goat cheese with the natural sweetness of dates, creating a unique flavor explosion. Topped with crispy turkey bacon and walnuts, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The sweet dates paired with creamy goat cheese and crispy turkey bacon create an irresistible taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a gourmet snack at home.
• Impressive Presentation: Stuffed dates look elegant on a platter, making them a great choice for entertaining.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the toppings or herbs based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make Goats cheese stuffed dates, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Food processor
• Baking tray or baking dish
• Cold pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the dates, making it easier to stuff them without splitting.
• Food processor: This tool allows you to blend the goat cheese mixture smoothly, achieving the perfect consistency for stuffing.
• Baking tray or baking dish: A good baking tray helps evenly cook the stuffed dates while providing easy serving options.

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Ingredients

A decadent snack for pre drinks or pre Christmas dinner.

For the Stuffing

• 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

For the Goat Cheese Mixture

• 250 g goat cheese
• 1 orange zest
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

How to Make Goats cheese stuffed dates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F. This ensures your stuffed dates bake evenly and develop a nice texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

Using a sharp knife, slice the dates lengthways and remove the seed. Ensure you do not split the dates in half. Discard the seeds and set the dates aside.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon Mix

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

Step 4: Make Goat Cheese Mixture

In a food processor, combine goat cheese, two-thirds of orange zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Stuff Your Dates

Stuff each date with roughly a teaspoon of goat cheese mixture. Lay them onto a baking tray or into a baking dish. Sprinkle the candied walnuts and turkey bacon mixture over each date.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Once out of the oven, sprinkle over remaining rosemary and orange zest before serving immediately. Enjoy!

How to Serve Goats cheese stuffed dates

These goats cheese stuffed dates make for an exquisite appetizer that can elevate any gathering. Here are several serving suggestions to enhance your presentation and flavor.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Arrange the stuffed dates alongside various cheeses, crackers, and fruits. This colorful display will impress your guests and provide diverse flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary or thyme. The herbs not only add a pop of color but also complement the rich flavors of the dish.

As Part of a Salad

• Toss the goats cheese stuffed dates into a mixed greens salad. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with tangy dressings and adds texture to the dish.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the stuffed dates enhances their richness while adding a delightful tartness.

Paired with Nuts

• Serve alongside roasted almonds or pecans. The crunch of the nuts balances out the creamy goats cheese and chewy dates.

How to Perfect Goats cheese stuffed dates

Creating delicious goats cheese stuffed dates is simple, but a few tips can make them extraordinary.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality goats cheese and ripe dates for the best flavors.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your goats cheese mixture before stuffing. You can modify the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
• Experiment with Spices: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the goats cheese for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Serve Warm: These dates are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven, so serve them promptly after baking.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the stuffed dates in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to cooking time if baking from cold.

Best Side Dishes for Goats cheese stuffed dates

Pairing side dishes with goats cheese stuffed dates can create a balanced meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed dates while adding freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring earthy flavors that pair well with sweet notes from the dates.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A citrus-infused quinoa salad provides a nutritious element that contrasts nicely with creamy textures.
4. Hummus Platter
   Serve with different hummus flavors such as roasted red pepper or garlic for a fun dip option alongside your appetizers.
5. Cheese Selection
   Include a variety of soft cheeses like brie or camembert for added creaminess and flavor diversity on your table.
6. Crostini with Toppings
   Offer crostini topped with various spreads like tapenade or whipped feta, providing additional textures and flavors to enjoy along with your snacks.
7. Pita Chips
   Crunchy pita chips provide an excellent vehicle for dipping into any spreads you serve alongside.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Mini bell peppers filled with herbed cream cheese offer another layer of flavor while keeping everything light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Goats cheese stuffed dates, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly cutting the dates: Ensure you slice the dates lengthways without splitting them in half. This helps keep the filling intact.
• Neglecting to season: Always season your goats cheese mixture well with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Overcooking the filling: Cook the turkey bacon and walnuts until crispy but avoid burning them. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent a bitter taste.
• Skipping the zest: Don’t forget the orange zest! It adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Not letting them cool: Allow your stuffed dates to cool slightly before serving. This prevents burns and intensifies their flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–5 days for best freshness.

Freezing Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2–3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking often.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, turning occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Goats cheese stuffed dates:

How do I prepare Goats cheese stuffed dates ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the dates up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Cream cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What dishes pair well with Goats cheese stuffed dates?

They pair wonderfully with salads, charcuterie boards, or served as finger foods at parties.

Are there any substitutes for turkey bacon?

You can use chicken or beef turkey bacon as alternatives, or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.

Can I customize my Goats cheese stuffed dates?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices, different nuts, or herbs according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Goats cheese stuffed dates are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. You can customize them with different cheeses or toppings based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your guests!