Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a show-stopping appetizer that never fails to impress, look no further than Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates. This irresistible medley of sweet Medjool dates, creamy feta, nutty Parmesan, and an herb-packed walnut topping proves that vegetarian bites can bring just as much wow-factor as any charcuterie board. With a balanced burst of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite, these stuffed dates are my go-to for parties, holidays, or whenever I’m craving something unique and luxurious straight from the oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates is how each ingredient, while simple, brings its own special magic to the party. When you combine them, you get a bold flavor profile and sophisticated texture that’s anything but complicated to achieve.

• Medjool Dates (10 ounces, pitted): Plump, sweet dates are the heart of this dish, providing a soft, caramel-like base for the savory filling.
• Honey (for drizzling & 1 1/2 teaspoons): Adds a glossy finish and a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with salty cheeses.
• Feta Cheese (3 ounces, sliced into 1-inch pieces): Brings a creamy, tangy flavor that melts just enough to become decadent.
• Parmesan Cheese (3/4 cup shredded): Offers nutty depth and a golden, crisp crust around each piece of feta.
• Walnuts (1/3 cup, finely chopped): Give a crunchy, toasty bite and balance the richness of the cheeses.
• Rosemary (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Lends earthy, aromatic freshness for an unmistakably Mediterranean vibe.
• Scallions (2 tablespoons, chopped): Add a gentle onion note and a pop of color in the topping.
• Parsley or Arugula (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens everything up; use parsley for classic freshness or arugula for a peppery kick.
• Olive Oil (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps meld the topping together while adding robust flavor.
• Orange Zest (1 teaspoon): Infuses a zingy citrus aroma that makes the flavors pop.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors; just a pinch does wonders.
• Pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle heat and rounds out the taste.

How to Make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Kicking things off is easy — just preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you the perfect temp to warm the dates all the way through and get the topping nice and golden without any burning.

Step 2: Mix Up the Walnut Herb Topping

Grab a mixing bowl and combine the walnuts, rosemary, scallions, parsley (or arugula), olive oil, honey, orange zest, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s evenly moistened and the herbs are clinging to the nuts. This powerhouse blend will sit atop your Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates, adding both crunch and loads of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Feta-Parmesan Filling

In one small bowl, pour a little honey. On a plate, spread out your shredded Parmesan. Dip each piece of sliced feta first into the honey (to get that hint of sweetness) and then roll them in Parmesan so they’re thoroughly coated. Trust me, this step is what steals the show!

Step 4: Stuff the Dates

Take your dates, sliced open on one side, and gently tuck a piece of your honey-Parmesan feta inside each one. The fit should be snug, so the cheese almost peeks out — the excitement is in the details!

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Arrange all your stuffed dates in a casserole dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Generously sprinkle the walnut and fresh herb mixture over the top of each one. This way, the flavors melt together as the dates roast, making each mouthful unforgettable.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Bake the Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates for 15 minutes, or until the dates are drum-soft and the Parmesan toppings are turning golden and crispy. These few minutes in the oven let all the flavors cozy up together for an utterly addictive bite.

Step 7: Finishing Touch

As soon as they’re out of the oven, drizzle each warm date with a bit more honey. Serve right away for that perfect gooey-meets-crispy texture and explosive sweet-salty goodness — trust me, they won’t last long!

How to Serve Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, try a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the just-baked dates. A tiny bit of orange zest or a dusting of flaky sea salt can make the flavors sparkle. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of honey brings a tangy-sweet twist that really complements the Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates.

Side Dishes

These stuffed dates absolutely shine alongside crisp salads (think: arugula and citrus, or shaved fennel). A light grain salad or even a mezze platter with hummus, olives, and toasted pita makes for a gorgeous, satisfying spread. If you want something a little more decadent, a simple potato gratin can balance the sweet-and-savory notes of these irresistible bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates on a rustic board with extra sprigs of rosemary and whole walnuts scattered about for an earthy, inviting look. Mini appetizer skewers can be used for easy grabbing at parties, or nestle them on little endive leaves for an elegant, bite-sized presentation at a fancier gathering. These dates are also beautiful stacked pyramid-style for a dramatic centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates (they go fast!), tuck them into an airtight container once they’re fully cooled. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them a great prep-ahead option for snacks and lunchboxes.

Freezing

These dates freeze surprisingly well! Place cooled, un-drizzled Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Save the honey drizzle for after they’re reheated. They’ll keep for up to 1 month in the freezer — a perfect make-ahead party trick.

Reheating

To get that fresh-from-the-oven magic back, reheat your dates in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 6 to 8 minutes, until warmed through and the topping is once again aromatic and crisp. Avoid the microwave if possible; it tends to make the dates a bit chewy. Don’t forget that final drizzle of honey or balsamic once they’re piping hot!

FAQs

Can I make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed dates, top them, and then refrigerate them (unbaked) for up to 24 hours before popping them in the oven. This makes them a dream for entertaining.

What’s the best substitute for walnuts?

If you need a nut-free option or just want to try something new, toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pistachios work beautifully and add their own unique crunch and color.

Can I use a different cheese besides feta?

Goat cheese is a fantastic alternative if you’re after a slightly tangier and creamier center. Or experiment with blue cheese for bolder flavor — just keep the Parmesan coating for that signature crunch.

Is it possible to make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan feta-style cheese and a plant-based Parmesan substitute. For honey, a drizzle of maple syrup or agave works wonders. The result is just as dreamy and decadent.

What’s the secret to getting the topping nice and crispy?

The key is to make sure your walnuts and cheese are evenly spread and to bake in a hot, preheated oven. A light mist of olive oil over the top right before roasting also helps create that irresistible golden crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for your next signature appetizer, Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates just might be it. One bite and you’ll see why I bring them to every gathering — they’re a perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy. I hope you have as much fun making (and devouring) them as I do!

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