Cheese-Stuffed Date Trio with Walnuts
DESCRIPTION
Sweet dates stuffed with a trio of creamy cheeses and topped with walnuts make a perfect combination. Serve them as an hors d’oeuvre with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or just keep some on hand for an easy, make-ahead snack.
Ingredients
- 36 Medjool dates, pitted*
- 2-ounces French Petite Crème (from a 4-ounce round)
- 2-ounces French Camembert (from an 8-ounce round)
- 2-ounces Blue Cheese (from a 6-ounce wedge)
- 1/3 C (1½-ounces) California walnuts, very finely chopped (see note)
- Honey or flaky sea salt, optional for garnish
- *To pit dates, use a sharp paring knife and cut down the side of the date lengthwise, then gently remove the pit with your fingers.
Preparation
- Slice each 2-ounce portion of cheese into 12 equal pieces.
- Insert 1 piece of cheese into the cavity of each pitted date.
- Sprinkle about a ¼ teaspoon of walnuts onto each stuffed date (see note).
- Serve immediately, garnished with a drizzle of honey or flaky sea salt (if using), or refrigerate in an airtight container up to five days.
Helpful tip: Put the packaged cheese in the freezer for 10 minutes prior to slicing as it will cut more easily.
Note: To differentiate between the cheese varieties on a platter, feel free to play around with the walnut toppings. For example, consider using a walnut half or quarter on one variety of cheese and chunkier chopped walnuts on another.