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
Scale
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
