Dates stuffed with goat's cheese
When you want a nibble which is a little different - marrying sweet and savoury. They are scrumptious, decadent and very popular we can guarantee.
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 15 mins
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
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12-15 large dates (medjool are best)
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1 log of goat's cheese, sliced
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Walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
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2 tsp orange juice
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1 tsp of orange zest plus strips of orange zest for decoration
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1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
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Olive oil
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1 tsp cinnamon (or more if you want)
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Large pinch of rock salt
Optional: Honey to drizzle over
Method
Preheat the oven to 180°C
Cut the dates halfway down lengthways and tuck in half a slice (semi-circle shape)of goat's cheese and squash to fit. Arrange in an oven-proof dish or a baking tin lined with foil.
Chop the walnuts and mix with the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, rosemary, cinnamon and salt. Dollop the nut mixture over the dates.
Pop the tray into the oven for 15 minutes. Either serve in the baking dish or transfer to a plate, add some strips of orange zest to decorate and drizzle over honey if using.
Wine
Compliment the sweetness of the dates with bright, fresh wine with great acidity. A dry white and sparkling wine are lovely especially if served as nibbles. Or, if this is your dessert, choose a sweet wine. You can make it your cheese and dessert course all in one go!