Savory Blue Cheese and Pecan-Stuffed Dates with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your next barbecue with this delightful appetizer that combines the sweetness of Medjool dates with the rich creaminess of blue cheese and the crunch of pecans. Drizzled with a luscious balsamic glaze, these warm stuffed dates offer a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet treat at home, this recipe is quick to prepare in under 30 minutes and makes for an irresistible addition to your spread. Inspired by Weber's Time to Grill™ by Jamie Purviance.
6
Servings
80
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Balsamic vinegar
1 cup (none)
Granulated sugar
1/2 cup (none)
Soft blue cheese
3 ounces (none)
Finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup (none)
Medjool dates
24 (pitted and sliced)
Canola oil cooking spray
as needed (none)
Instructions
1
Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using them for grilling.
2
Prepare your grill for direct cooking over medium heat, aiming for a temperature between 350°F and 450°F.
3
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
4
In a bowl, mash the blue cheese with the chopped pecans using a fork until well combined.
5
Carefully slice each Medjool date along one side to remove the pit, then stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of the cheese and pecan mixture, pressing the date closed around it.
6
Thread two stuffed dates onto each skewer, ensuring the skewer goes through the halves of each date to secure them. Lightly spray the skewers with canola oil.
7
Clean the cooking grates of the grill, and place the skewers on the grill over direct medium heat. Close the lid and grill for about 1 minute or until the dates are warm and slightly caramelized.
8
Transfer the grilled dates to a platter and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with the prepared balsamic glaze and enjoy warm.
Nutrition Information
4.7
Fat
9.3
Carbs
1.5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recipe for Savory Blue Cheese and Pecan-Stuffed Dates with Balsamic Glaze?
This recipe features Medjool dates stuffed with a mixture of soft blue cheese and chopped pecans, grilled briefly, and drizzled with a homemade balsamic glaze.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of stuffed dates?
Each serving contains approximately 80 calories.
Is this recipe considered gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total preparation and cooking time is under 30 minutes.
What type of dates are best for this recipe?
Medjool dates are recommended for their size and sweetness.
What kind of cheese is used in the stuffing?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of soft blue cheese.
Which nuts are included in the date filling?
The filling uses 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans.
How do you make the balsamic glaze?
Combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/2 cup sugar in a saucepan, simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened, then let cool.
What grill temperature is required?
The grill should be prepared for direct cooking over medium heat, between 350°F and 450°F.
Do I need to soak the skewers?
Yes, if using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
How long should the dates stay on the grill?
The dates only need about 1 minute on the grill to become warm and slightly caramelized.
How many dates are used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 24 Medjool dates.
How many dates go on each skewer?
Thread two stuffed dates onto each skewer.
How much filling goes into each date?
Each date should be stuffed with about 1 teaspoon of the blue cheese and pecan mixture.
Is it necessary to clean the grill grates?
Yes, ensure the cooking grates are clean before placing the skewers on the grill.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 4.7 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 9.3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 1.5 grams of protein.
What type of oil is recommended for the skewers?
Canola oil cooking spray is used to lightly coat the skewers.
Who inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Weber's Time to Grill by Jamie Purviance.
How long should the dates cool before serving?
Allow the grilled dates to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
How do you prepare the dates for stuffing?
Slice each date along one side to remove the pit and create a cavity for the filling.
What consistency should the balsamic glaze have?
The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Can I serve these dates cold?
While they can be served at various temperatures, the recipe suggests enjoying them warm.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue?
Yes, it is described as a perfect appetizer for a barbecue or party.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
The recipe requires 6 main ingredients.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, grilled, sweet and savory, balsamic glaze, and party food.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a contrast of sweet dates, tangy blue cheese, and savory balsamic glaze.
Does the recipe use granulated sugar?
Yes, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar is used to sweeten the balsamic glaze.