So, I hosted a party recently, you know, like you do. Perhaps you read about it the other day? Hmm? Well, you’ll be shocked to know that I made more than one thing for the party. I know, crazy talk.
So here’s another delicious (and time-friendly) appetizer you can serve at your next party, dinner gathering, hot date, picnic… Yes, picnic. Because after weeks of sub-zero temps in Denver, mother nature has magically bestowed 60-degree days upon the Queen City of the Plains. And if you have dates(the fruit), and it’s warm where you are, you could be eating these on your porch or in the park twenty minutes from now.
Also, did you know that many believe that dates (the fruit) are an aphrodisiac? So if you want something to nibble on for your next date (not the fruit) maybe try a date (the fruit).
You’ll notice I didn’t include quantities below because the recipe is pretty much the same whether you make five or fifty. The typical goat cheese log is 8 ounces. I made thirty of these for the party and still had plenty of goat cheese left–just remember that a little goes a long way. Also, I’ll stop making “date-the-fruit” jokes and just get on with the show!
Goat Cheese & Almond Stuffed Dates
–Dates, sliced open lengthwise (but not all the way through), pits removed
–Goat cheese, plain
–Almonds, whole and raw (sometimes labeled “natural”)
–Crushed red pepper
–Black pepper, fresh
–Prosciutto, torn into thin slices [obviously, omit this if you wish to make it vegetarian]
Using a small spoon, fill each date with a scoop of goat cheese. Then place an almond inside, nestled in the goat cheese. Last time I made these (at Easter), I sprinkled the goat cheese ahead of time with the crushed red pepper and fresh black pepper. This time I just sprinkled the dates with the spices, then wrapped each date with a prosciutto slice and sprinkled them again.
Bake at 400 degrees for 12 minutes until the goat cheese is warm, but not scalding. Serve warm. You can also make these the night before or morning of and then just heat and serve.
Dammit Jim, I’m a cook, not a doctor…
Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 84 calories per date
