These prosciutto wrapped dates are a tasty treat! Sweet, chewy dates wrapped in salty prosciutto make for a delightful bite you won’t forget.
They’re perfect for party snacks or a cozy night in. Whenever I make them, I can’t help but smile at how quickly they disappear. Who can resist that combo? 😋
What I love is how simple they are to prepare. Just wrap, bake, and enjoy! Pair them with cheese for an extra yummy experience!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them perfect for wrapping. If you can’t find Medjool dates, use any other pitted dates, but keep in mind they’ll vary in sweetness and size.
Prosciutto: Thin, salty slices of prosciutto give a lovely crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitution, pancetta or bacon can work, but keep an eye on cooking time, as they might cook differently.
Cheese (optional): Stuffing dates with goat cheese or blue cheese adds a creamy richness. If you want a milder cheese, cream cheese or ricotta could also be tasty options!
Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a splash of color and a fresh taste. If you don’t have parsley, you could use chives or omit it altogether.
How Can I Ensure the Prosciutto Stays Wrapped Around the Dates?
Getting the prosciutto to stay wrapped can be tricky, but here are some tips to help! First, make sure you cut your prosciutto slices thinly and evenly. Wrap the prosciutto tightly around each date. If you’re using cheese, be cautious not to overstuff, so the prosciutto can secure properly.
- Using toothpicks can really help hold things together. Just pierce the wrapped date to keep it in place during baking.
- Finally, placing the seam side down on the baking sheet keeps the prosciutto from unraveling as they bake.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 10 thin slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- Optional: 4 oz goat cheese or blue cheese, for stuffing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Toothpicks (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for baking. All together, you’ll be enjoying these delightful bites in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This helps with easy cleanup later on!
2. Prepare the Dates:
If you want to add some creaminess, stuff each pitted date with a small amount of goat cheese or blue cheese. Just use a little spoon to fill them, giving you a delightful mix of sweet and salty. Yum!
3. Cut the Prosciutto:
Next, take your prosciutto slices and slice them in half lengthwise to create long, thin strips. These will wrap around the dates perfectly.
4. Wrap the Dates:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one date and wrap a prosciutto strip around it tightly. Make sure it stays secure. If it doesn’t, feel free to use a toothpick to keep everything in place while they bake.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place all the wrapped dates on the baking sheet, keeping the seam side down. This will help them keep their shape while baking.
6. Bake Away:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the prosciutto to be crispy and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color. Then, serve them warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy every tasty bite!
These prosciutto wrapped dates are sure to impress your friends and family with their simple yet irresistible flavor combination!
Can I Use Different Types of Dates?
Absolutely! While Medjool dates are preferred for their sweetness and size, you can use other pitted dates like Deglet Noor. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Can I Prepare These Dates in Advance?
Yes, you can! Pre-wrap the dates and store them in the refrigerator on the baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. They should be baked on the day you plan to serve them for the best flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Can I Make Them Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, you can skip the prosciutto and wrap the dates in strips of roasted bell peppers or thinly sliced zucchini instead. You’ll still get a deliciously sweet and savory bite!