Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet-and-savory party treat, look no further than Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates. This Mediterranean-inspired appetizer brings together plump Medjool dates, creamy feta, nutty Parmesan, and a touch of fresh lemon zest for a bite that’s as decadent as it is easy to make. Each morsel is roasted to golden perfection, creating irresistible caramelized edges and a warm, gooey center. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want to spoil yourself with a flavor-packed snack, Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates are always a huge hit and will disappear faster than you can say “more, please!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about making Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates is that you only need a handful of simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one adds its own special personality, from the sweet dates to the zesty lemon. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it):
- Medjool dates (20, pitted): These large, tender dates are naturally sweet and create the perfect pocket for stuffing.
- Feta cheese (1/4 cup, crumbled): Adds tangy creaminess that balances the dates’ sweetness beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Brings a salty, nutty depth and helps the filling get lovely and golden in the oven.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a pop of color and a fresh herby note that brightens every bite.
- Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the filling a subtle citrus lift and extra aroma.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth to balance the flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle before roasting helps everything meld and enhances the golden finish.
- Optional honey for drizzling: For those who love a touch of extra sweetness and shine at the end.
How to Make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Get started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy and to prevent the dates from sticking. This step sets you up for roasting success—no sticky mess, just caramelized goodness.
Step 2: Create Date Pockets
Take each Medjool date and carefully slice it lengthwise on one side, stopping just before you cut all the way through. Gently open each date to form a pocket, making sure not to tear it apart. This shape is perfect for holding all that cheesy filling.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix so you get a balanced bite every time. This filling is the heart of your Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates—creamy, tangy, and aromatic!
Step 4: Stuff the Dates
Using a teaspoon, gently stuff each date with the cheese mixture. Try to get about a teaspoon of filling into each one, and don’t worry if it overflows a little—those crispy cheese edges are the best part!
Step 5: Drizzle and Roast
Arrange all your stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet, then lightly drizzle them with olive oil. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and roast for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the dates are warm throughout. The aroma alone will have everyone hovering in the kitchen!
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
After taking the dates out of the oven, let them cool for just a few minutes. If you love a sweet finish, drizzle with a little honey right before serving. These Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates are delicious warm or at room temperature—so dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates
Garnishes
Finish your platter with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley for color and a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper. For a festive look, you can even add a bit of extra lemon zest or a light drizzle of honey—it adds just the right sparkle and sweetness on top of your Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates.
Side Dishes
These stuffed dates pair beautifully with fresh salads, especially those with arugula, citrus, or toasted nuts. For a Mediterranean-style spread, try serving them alongside hummus, olives, and warm pita bread. They’re also lovely next to a cheese board for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For party flair, skewer each stuffed date with a decorative toothpick or tiny fork. Arrange them on a wooden board with sprigs of parsley and lemon wedges. If you want an extra pop, nestle them among roasted nuts or serve in mini cupcake liners for individual bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates (a rare occurrence!), simply pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making them a great make-ahead appetizer for busy weeks.
Freezing
To freeze, place the stuffed (but unbaked) dates on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the roasting time.
Reheating
Warm leftover dates in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the cheese melty and the dates tender. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dates chewy instead of soft and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use another type Appetizer
Medjool dates are preferred for their size and softness, but you can use other varieties if you like—just make sure they’re large enough to stuff and adjust the filling amount as needed.
What’s the best way to pit dates if they aren’t already pitted?
Simply slice lengthwise along one side, open the date slightly, and remove the pit with your fingers. It’s quick and easy, and keeps the date intact for stuffing.
Are Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for guests with dietary restrictions—just double-check any imported cheeses for hidden additives.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. Mix the feta, Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, and black pepper together and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready, just stuff and roast the dates for fresh, warm appetizers.
What can I add for extra crunch or heat?
Try mixing in some chopped walnuts for crunch or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Both additions make the Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates irresistibly unique!
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your friends or treat yourself to something special, these Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates are a must-try. They’re quick, simple, and absolutely delicious—each bite is a celebration of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. I hope you’ll give them a go and share them with someone you love!
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Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffed dates 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and elegant appetizer featuring Medjool dates stuffed with a savory blend of feta and Parmesan cheeses, fresh parsley, and lemon zest, then roasted to perfection. These sweet and savory bites are perfect for parties or a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients
Dates
- 20 Medjool dates (pitted)
Cheese Filling
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dates: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side and gently open to form a pocket for stuffing.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Stuff Dates: Using about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture, stuff each date pocket carefully. Place the stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle and Roast: Lightly drizzle the stuffed dates with olive oil. Roast them in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese mixture turns slightly golden and the dates are warmed through.
- Serve: Remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. Optionally drizzle with honey for added sweetness. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or party bite.
Notes
- For a savory twist, add chopped walnuts or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
- These stuffed dates make a great elegant appetizer or party bite.
- You can prepare the dates ahead of time and roast them just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
