Crispy Rice with Spicy Salmon, Avocado, and Jalapenos Recipe
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4.6 from 52 reviews
Delight in these Roasted Stuffed Dates filled with creamy goat cheese, topped with a fragrant walnut and rosemary mixture, and finished with a drizzle of hot honey. Perfect as a warm appetizer or elegant snack.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Ingredients
Dates and Filling
1 (12-oz.) pkg. pitted Medjool dates
1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese, softened to room temperature
Topping
1/3 cup very finely chopped walnuts
2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
1 tsp. orange zest
2 tsp. fresh orange juice (from 1 navel orange)
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. sea salt
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Garnish (Optional)
A drizzle of hot honey
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375ºF to prepare for roasting the dates.
Prepare Dates: Using a small sharp paring knife, slice each Medjool date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Carefully open the dates and stuff each with 1 to 2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese.
Arrange Dates: Place the stuffed dates evenly in a 9×9-inch baking pan, round cake pan, or a small baking sheet, ensuring they are easy to bake uniformly.
Make Walnut Topping: In a small bowl, combine the very finely chopped walnuts, minced fresh rosemary, orange zest, fresh orange juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
Top and Bake: Spoon the walnut mixture evenly over the goat cheese-stuffed dates. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Rest and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and let the dates sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Transfer the dates to a serving platter and drizzle with a little hot honey if desired. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
Ensure goat cheese is at room temperature for easy stuffing and better texture.
Use Medjool dates for their large size and natural sweetness, which complements the cheese and topping well.
Chop walnuts finely for even distribution and easier eating.
Fresh rosemary and orange zest add a wonderful aromatic touch; do not substitute with dry herbs if possible.
Hot honey drizzle adds a spicy sweetness, but it can be omitted for a less intense finish.
Serve these as a warm appetizer or a sophisticated snack at gatherings.
