There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and these roasted Boursin stuffed dates deliver that in spades! I first discovered this recipe at a friend’s gathering where appetizers took center stage. My accidental choice of this dish led to surprising compliments, making it my go-to when I’m in need of a crowd-pleaser!
What makes this recipe so good:
- Sweet vs. Savory: The sweetness of Medjool dates pairs perfectly with creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese.
- Crunch Factor: The pistachios add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the gooey cheese and soft dates.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, this dish comes together quickly – perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 24 Medjool dates (approx. 680g)
- 1 package (5.2 oz or 150g) Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- ½ cup (70g) shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Smart Swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese spread instead of Boursin.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pistachios and add crumbled bacon or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Honey Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
Sourcing Tips:
- Choose Medjool dates that are plump and shiny with a slight stickiness, indicating freshness.
- For the Boursin cheese, look for brands that prioritize natural ingredients—this enhances both flavor and texture.
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Create a lengthwise slit in each date and carefully remove the pit. You want your dates to remain as intact as possible for stuffing.
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of Boursin cheese, then gently press the sides closed.
- Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over each date, pressing gently to adhere.
- Roast in the oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the dates are warm and the cheese is slightly softened. You will know they are done when you can see a bit of bubbly cheese peeking out.
- Drizzle honey over the warm dates and garnish with thyme if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the accolades!
Safety Note: Be careful when handling hot dishes and avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw and ready-to-eat foods.
Serving, Storage, and Reheat Guidance:
These delightful stuffed dates are best served warm, straight from the oven, as they lose some charm when cooled. However, if you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to get them warm and a little crispy again.
Pro Tips:
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed dates a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge before roasting.
- Transport: Pack them in a sturdy container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during transit.
- Re-Crisping: If you’ve made them ahead and they lose their crunch, throw them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes!
Variations:
- Cheese Lovers: Mix Boursin with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese for a bit of heat.
- Fruit Twist: Top the dates with a slice of apple or pear for a fresh twist.
FAQs:
Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, any soft cheese like cream cheese or goat cheese would work beautifully.Are there any nuts I can use instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! You can use chopped almonds, walnuts, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture.Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat-based ingredients.
Get ready to impress your guests (or yourself!) with these delicious roasted Boursin stuffed dates. With their irresistible blend of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
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Delicious Roasted Boursin Stuffed Dates with Pistachios
Sweet Medjool dates stuffed with creamy Boursin cheese and topped with crunchy pistachios, these roasted appetizers are perfect for entertaining.
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 24 Medjool dates (approx. 680g)
- 1 package (5.2 oz or 150g) Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- ½ cup (70g) shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Create a lengthwise slit in each date and carefully remove the pit.
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of Boursin cheese, then gently press the sides closed.
- Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over each date, pressing gently to adhere.
- Roast in the oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the dates are warm and the cheese is slightly softened.
- Drizzle honey over the warm dates and garnish with thyme if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Best served warm straight from the oven. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian