Goats cheese stuffed dates

Goats cheese stuffed dates are a delightful treat that perfectly combines sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing for a holiday feast, these stuffed dates make an impressive appetizer. Their creamy goat cheese filling paired with crispy turkey bacon creates a unique taste experience that will leave your guests craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, and savory turkey bacon ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for parties, holiday dinners, or even as a snack, these dates can be enjoyed anytime.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their impressive presentation and delicious taste, they’re sure to impress anyone you serve them to.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make goats cheese stuffed dates successfully, having the right tools on hand can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the dates without splitting them completely.
• Baking tray or dish: Provides an easy way to organize and bake multiple dates at once.
• Food processor: Blends the goat cheese mixture smoothly for easy stuffing into the dates.

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 Cheese Mixture

• 250 g goat’s 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 that your goats cheese stuffed dates will cook evenly.

Step 2: Prep the Dates

Using a sharp knife, slice the dates lengthways and remove the seed. Be careful not to split the dates in half. Discard the seeds and set the prepared dates aside.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon Mixture

In a cold pan, add the diced turkey bacon. Turn the heat to high and cook for 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 turkey bacon is crispy and you have a jammy consistency.

Step 4: Prepare Goat Cheese Filling

In a food processor, combine the goat’s cheese, two-thirds of the orange zest, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and well combined for easy stuffing into each date.

Step 5: Stuff the Dates

Stuff each date with roughly a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Lay them onto a baking tray or dish. Evenly sprinkle the candied walnut and turkey bacon mixture over each date. Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle over any remaining rosemary and orange zest before serving immediately. Enjoy your goats cheese stuffed dates warm as an irresistible appetizer!

How to Serve Goats cheese stuffed dates

Serving goats cheese stuffed dates can elevate your appetizer game, whether for a casual gathering or a festive occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include goats cheese stuffed dates alongside assorted cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits. This variety adds flavor and texture.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the plate with fresh herbs like basil or mint. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh aroma.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over the stuffed dates provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Paired with Balsamic Reduction

• Serve alongside a balsamic reduction for dipping. The acidity balances the richness of the goats cheese and brings out its flavors.

On Skewers

• Thread the stuffed dates onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and olives for easy serving. This adds a fun twist to your presentation.

With Spiced Nuts

• Arrange your dates next to spiced nuts such as pecans or almonds. The crunch will contrast nicely with the soft texture of the stuffed dates.

How to Perfect Goats cheese stuffed dates

To achieve the best results when preparing goats cheese stuffed dates, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality dates: Opt for plump, fresh Medjool dates for optimal sweetness and texture.
• Balance flavors: Use herbs like rosemary or thyme judiciously to enhance the taste without overpowering.
• Preheat your oven properly: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature helps in achieving that perfect crispy finish on your turkey bacon.
• Stuff generously: Don’t skimp on the goats cheese filling; ensure each date is well-stuffed for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different toppings like crushed pistachios or feta cheese for added complexity.
• Serve warm: These dates are best enjoyed immediately after baking, so serve them warm to fully appreciate their flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Goats cheese stuffed dates

Pairing side dishes with goats cheese stuffed dates can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the stuffed dates.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a smoky counterpart.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs offers a hearty yet healthy side option that complements well.
4. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties adds creaminess and pairs nicely with crisp pita chips.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with savory flavors.
6. Crispy Flatbreads: Serve warm, crispy flatbreads which can be used to scoop up any leftover goats cheese mixture.
7. Spicy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add an interesting crunch and heat that contrasts perfectly.
8. Fruit Chutney: A tangy fruit chutney can add an extra layer of flavor that enhances both the sweetness and saltiness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Goats cheese stuffed dates, small errors can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overstuffing the dates: Stuffing too much filling can cause the dates to burst during baking. Aim for about a teaspoon of goats cheese mixture per date.
• Using unripe dates: Unripe dates may not have the right sweetness or texture. Choose soft, plump dates for the best flavor and mouthfeel.
• Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper to the cheese mixture can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Under-baking: Not baking long enough can leave your dish cold in the middle. Ensure they bake for a full 10 minutes to get a warm, gooey center.
• Neglecting presentation: A visually appealing dish is more appetizing. Arrange your stuffed dates neatly on a platter and sprinkle with extra toppings for color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Goats cheese stuffed dates

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C / 350 degrees F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm; avoid overheating as it can affect texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a hot pan over low heat, covering with a lid to warm evenly, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Goats cheese stuffed dates:

What types of dates are best for stuffing?

Medjool dates are ideal due to their size, softness, and sweetness. They hold up well when baked and offer great flavor balance.

Can I use other cheeses instead of goats cheese?

Yes! Cream cheese or ricotta can be excellent alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors or textures.

How do I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make vegan goats cheese stuffed dates, substitute goats cheese with cashew cream or nut-based cheeses available in stores.

What can I serve with Goats cheese stuffed dates?

These delicious bites pair well with fresh salads, crusty bread, or even as part of a charcuterie board.

Final Thoughts

Goats cheese stuffed dates are an elegant and versatile snack perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Feel free to customize the filling by adding nuts or herbs according to your taste preferences. Try this delightful combination today!