Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Name: Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 12 large Medjool dates; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: December 3, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a breeze to whip up.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual family dinner, these stuffed dates are always a hit.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy cheese, sweet dates, and crunchy walnuts offers a delicious contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm as an appetizer or cool as part of a gourmet snack spread.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from walnuts and protein from cheese, these bites are as nutritious as they are tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, having the right tools in your kitchen can streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Small skillet
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Essential for evenly heating the stuffed dates in the oven while ensuring they don’t stick.
Small skillet: Perfect for toasting walnuts to enhance their flavor before adding them to the dish.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the cheeses thoroughly before stuffing the dates.
Sharp knife: Ensures easy slicing of Medjool dates without damaging them.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Dates

Medjool dates (12 large) – Sweet and chewy, these are the perfect base for stuffing.
Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled) – Adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates.
Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated) – Brings nutty richness to the filling.

For the Topping

Walnuts (1/2 cup, chopped) – Provides a delightful crunch.
Honey (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the walnut topping and adds a glossy finish.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the flavor of the walnuts.
Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, chopped) – Adds a hint of earthiness to the dish.
Salt and pepper – To taste.

How to Make Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Pit the Dates

Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit, creating a pocket for the filling.

Step 3: Combine Cheeses

In a bowl, mix together the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Dates

Spoon the cheese mixture into each date, pressing gently to ensure they are filled.

Step 5: Toast the Walnuts

In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts, toast for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.

Step 6: Add Honey and Thyme

Remove from heat, stir in the honey and chopped thyme. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Top the Dates

Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet. Drizzle honey-walnut mixture over each one.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes until cheese is warm and slightly melted.

Step 9: Plate and Enjoy

Remove from oven; let cool slightly before serving warm. These stuffed dates are perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of these delicious bites.

As an Appetizer

Serve these stuffed dates on a platter as a unique appetizer for gatherings. Their sweet and savory flavor profile is sure to impress your guests.

Pair with Cheese Board

Include the stuffed dates on a cheese board alongside various cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruits. This combination will enhance the overall tasting experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

For added visual appeal, garnish your served dates with additional fresh thyme or parsley. This not only looks great but also enhances the herbaceous notes of the dish.

Accompany with Dipping Sauce

Offer a side of balsamic glaze or a yogurt-based dip. The contrasting flavors will complement the stuffed dates beautifully.

On Top of Salad

Chop up the stuffed dates and sprinkle them over mixed greens salad. They add a sweet twist to your fresh greens and work well with vinaigrettes.

How to Perfect Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Creating the perfect Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh Medjool dates and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
Don’t Overstuff: Fill each date generously but avoid overstuffing, which can cause them to burst during baking.
Toast Walnuts Carefully: Monitor walnuts while toasting to prevent burning; they should be golden and fragrant.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like rosemary or basil for different flavor profiles.
Serve Warm: These dates are best enjoyed warm, so serve them immediately after baking for optimal taste.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly in the topping mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Pairing side dishes with Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery freshness that contrasts nicely.
Hummus Platter: Serve creamy hummus alongside pita chips and fresh vegetables for dipping; it complements the sweetness of the dates.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides heartiness and balances out the rich flavors.
Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with diced veggies and herbs makes for a flavorful side that pairs well.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice serve as a satisfying accompaniment that rounds out the meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds an elegant touch and bright flavor contrast.
Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices offers protein and complements the stuffed dates nicely.
Quinoa Pilaf: Flavored quinoa pilaf with nuts and dried fruits can provide an interesting texture alongside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation.

Overstuffing the Dates: Putting too much filling can cause the dates to burst during baking. Aim for a generous yet manageable amount of cheese mixture.
Neglecting to Toast Walnuts: Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful topping. Always toast your walnuts for enhanced taste and crunch.
Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold cheese can affect how well they melt. Allow your cheeses to come to room temperature before mixing.
Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning the walnut topping can make the dish bland. Always add enough salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to ensure even heat distribution for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

For best results, freeze before baking.
Wrap each date tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place dates on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding dates until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch or need tips, read on!

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! You can experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize the toppings?

Feel free to add spices or substitute nuts based on your preference. Herbs like rosemary or basil can also enhance the flavor.

What are some serving suggestions?

These stuffed dates make excellent appetizers at parties or can be served alongside salads for a delightful contrast.

How spicy can I make these stuffed dates?

You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat without overpowering the dish’s sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these stuffed dates are sure to impress. Feel free to customize the ingredients and toppings to suit your taste!

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