Looking for a delicious and healthy adult snack? These Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Pistachios offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal treat or appetizer. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how satisfying they taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Medjool Dates: Use soft, plump dates. Deglet Noor dates can work but will be smaller.
- Goat Cheese (Chèvre): Plain, soft goat cheese is best. Cream cheese or mascarpone are decent substitutions for a milder flavor.
- Pistachios: Shelled, unsalted pistachios are preferred. Almonds or walnuts can also be used.
Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates
- 3 oz soft goat cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- Optional: a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Optional: a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 (2 dates per serving)
- Tools Needed: Small mixing bowl, sharp knife, spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dates
Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise down one side, just enough to open it up and remove the pit. Be gentle to keep the date intact. You are creating a little pocket for your filling.
2. Fill the Dates
In a small bowl, gently mash the goat cheese. Use a small spoon or butter knife to fill each pitted date with about a teaspoon of goat cheese. Don’t overfill them, but make sure they have a good amount.
3. Add Pistachios
Press the finely chopped pistachios onto the goat cheese filling in each date. You can gently roll the filled side in a shallow dish of pistachios for even coverage. This adds a lovely crunch to your healthy adult snack.
4. Garnish (Optional)
If desired, arrange your stuffed dates on a platter. Drizzle lightly with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of flavor. Serve immediately as a delightful healthy adult snack.
Variation Ideas
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes to the goat cheese.
- Herby Freshness: Mix finely chopped fresh rosemary or chives into the goat cheese.
- Nutty Crunch: Instead of pistachios, try toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After filling, drizzle with a small amount of melted dark chocolate.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed at room temperature, so let them sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving again. These make a fantastic make-ahead healthy adult snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare these up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Q: What kind of dates are best for this recipe?
A: Medjool dates are highly recommended due to their large size, soft texture, and rich, caramel-like flavor.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While goat cheese offers a unique tang, you can substitute with cream cheese or a mild blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Q: Are these suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! These Stuffed Dates are a perfect healthy adult snack for meal prepping throughout the week.
Q: Do I need to remove the skin from the pistachios?
A: Shelled pistachios typically come without the skin. If yours have skin, you can remove it for a smoother texture, but it’s not essential.
Q: How many calories are in one stuffed date?
A: The calorie count varies slightly based on size and exact ingredient amounts, but typically one stuffed date contains approximately 80-100 calories, making it a satisfying healthy adult snack.
