Feta-Stuffed Medjool Dates

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We picked up some luscious-looking Medjool dates the other day, and I've been enjoying them straight out of the box and stirred into my oatmeal. I figured I should do something a little fancier with a few. This is what I came up with.

(I know, not a very exciting introduction, is it? I'm sorry, but I've just got nothin' except a potential joke about stuffed dates being a refreshing change for some people from inflatable dates, but I'm not really sure where to go with it, and besides, it's sort of jerky anyway. So let's return to boring, shall we?)

It's a simple, yet sophisticated-looking appetizer sure to please the most discerning palettes. In other words: They're pretty dang good. The saltiness of the feta is the perfect counterbalance to the rich sweetness of the plump fig. Add pecans, if you want, or don't – they add a nice extra bit of texture. And topped with honey? Swoon.

I'm ready to run down to the kitchen and make more.

Oh – speaking of dates, have you ever had a date shake? I have not. Half the reason I want to take a winter jaunt to Palm Springs is, I think, because I want to try an authentic Palm Springs date shake. How can that possibly be anything but insanely good?

Anyway, here's the recipe.

Feta-Stuffed Medjool Dates

Makes 12

Ingredients:

• 12 Medjool dates
• 1 cup feta cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Honey for drizzling
• Chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees, and spray a cookie sheet with non-stick spray or lay a piece of parchment paper on it.
2. Slice the date along the top, carefully pop it open, and remove the pit.

    

   See?! there's the pit. Remove that sucker.

   

3. Place the dates on the cookie sheet.
4. In a food processor, mix together the feta, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

   

5. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture into each date.

   

6. If using, sprinkle with pecans.

   

7. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes.
8. Let cool for a couple of minutes, then move to the serving platter.
9. Drizzle each warmed date lightly with honey.
10. Serve and enjoy!