Delicious Stuffed AZIZ Medjool Dates with Goat Cheese and Pine Nuts

Ingredients

• 16 Medjool dates (approximately 2 cups)
• 4 oz goat cheese (about 113 g)
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• To serve: flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Dates: Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side and remove the pit.

Stuffing the Dates

3. Add Goat Cheese: Using a spoon, fill each date with a generous amount of goat cheese. Arrange the stuffed dates cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the dates are warmed through and slightly softened.

Toasting Pine Nuts

5. Toast the Pine Nuts: While the dates are baking, heat a small sauté pan over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving

6. Finish and Serve: Once the dates are out of the oven, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil. Top with the toasted pine nuts, and season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Notes

• Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare and stuff the dates up to 3 days in advance. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge or cover them with plastic wrap on a tray to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, simply bake them as directed.

Nutritional Information (per serving: 2 dates)

• Calories: 313 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62.9 g
• Protein: 6.9 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.7 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Sodium: 169 mg
• Potassium: 412 mg
• Fiber: 6.2 g
• Sugar: 54.5 g
• Calcium: 130 mg
• Iron: 1.3 mg

Conclusion

These stuffed Medjool dates make for an exquisite appetizer or snack that combines sweet and savory flavors beautifully. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a delightful treat at home!