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Want a truly great appetizer for your next party, try this date recipe adapted from Williams-Sonoma Entertaining. I had never tried Medjool dates before these. I found the dates deliciously sweet and chewy. The goat cheese helped to keep the dates from becoming overwhelmingly sweet. I think these would be a great appetizer for any dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 1 Tbs. olive oil (plus extra for drizzling in baking dish)
- 4 Tbs. fresh whole wheat bread crumbs
- 24 large Medjool dates
- 1/4 lb. soft fresh goat cheese
Preheat oven to 375°. Lightly oil baking dish. You will want a dish that is large enough to hold the dates in a single layer.
Place small non-stick skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add the bread crumbs and toast, stirring constantly, until the bread crumbs turn golden brown. This step should take 1-2 minutes. Let bread crumbs cool.
Use a paring knife to make a cut in each date. Remove the pit. Stuff each date with 1 tsp. of goat cheese. Arrange dates in baking dish with cheese facing up. Sprinkle with bread crumbs. (you can store the dates in the fridge like this for up to 24 hours)
Bake the dates until warm (10 mins. or so). Serve warm. Serves 6 (I think with other appetizers this dish may actually serve 8 - these dates are quite delicious, but very rich).