Dates are nature’s candy. Easy to prepare as a snack or small treat after a meal, these bites are not only rich but nutritious too.
By Maria Vee
Wholesome. Naturally sweet. Absolutely delicious. Those are the words that come to mind when I think of these Ricotta Stuffed Medjool Dates. Whether preparing them as appetizers or as a snack for the kids, nothing can be healthier or easier to make. 
It all starts with medjool dates, and all that’s required after that is a little prep work. Because of the larger size of the medjool date, they’re easy to stuff once the pit has been removed. So, using a sharp knife cut a slit down the center of each date and remove the pit. Be careful not to cut through the date as we will be stuffing ours.
Today, we will elevate the already mighty date by stuffing them with ricotta. I’ve added just a teaspoon of honey to the ricotta mixture to provide a smoother consistency. You can easily replace the ricotta with a goat cheese, feta or any other cheese you like. I encourage you to experiment with different cheeses and see which one you prefer. I’d love to hear about your preferences.
There is no denying that dates are sweet. The fact is that 70% of a date’s weight comes from sugar. That being said, dates are still one of the healthiest foods you can eat, and one of the best to provide you with a quick energy boost.
I love the versatility of dates – they can be used in both savoury (like Moroccan lamb tangines) and sweet (like date squares, a Quebec favourite!) dishes.
It is a well-known fact that throughout the Middle East, dates are traditionally paired with walnuts. The exotic flavours of dates not only taste great; they’re extremely healthy for you too.
Nutrition Tip: Did you know that dates are truly powerhouses when it comes to nutrition? They are a great source of dietary fiber and the all-important antioxidants; and when it comes to vitamins and minerals, like potassium and magnesium, they are a great source of those as well.
ORIGINS OF THE RECIPE FOR RICOTTA STUFFED MEDJOOL DATES:
It was many, many decades ago that I first tasted the pairings of dates with ricotta and walnuts. As I have previously mentioned, my mom would love to discuss recipes with her sisters and close friends. She would just love to experiment and try different recipes. This is one of those recipes that she would occasionally make. Once again, simplicity at its best!
And so, in keeping with tradition, I’ve garnished these Ricotta Stuffed Medjool Dates with a walnut half. Absolutely decadent (without the guilt)! Enjoy!!!
PrintMedjool Dates Stuffed with Ricotta
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 stuffed dates 1x
Description
These Ricotta Stuffed Medjool Dates are a simple yet decadent treat, combining the natural sweetness of dates with creamy ricotta and a hint of honey, topped with a crunchy walnut.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 6 Medjool dates
- 6 walnut halves
Instructions
- With a fork, combine 1/4 cup of ricotta cheese and 1 teaspoon of honey together until smooth.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the center of each of the 6 Medjool dates and remove the pit. Be careful not to cut through the date completely.
- Fill each date with about 3/4 of a teaspoon of the ricotta mixture.
- Garnish each stuffed date with a walnut half on top.
Notes
You can substitute ricotta with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. These stuffed dates are a great source of dietary fiber and antioxidants. They can be served as an appetizer or a sweet snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 10
- Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 5
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cheese can I use instead of ricotta for stuffing the dates?
You can easily replace the ricotta with goat cheese, feta, or any other cheese you prefer.
How do I properly prepare the Medjool dates for stuffing?
To prepare the dates, cut a slit down the center of each date and carefully remove the pit without cutting through the date.
Why do you add honey to the ricotta mixture?
The teaspoon of honey is added to the ricotta to provide a smoother consistency, enhancing the overall texture of the filling.
Hey there Maria, glad to see you are highlighting Medjool Dates. They are very versatile, from stuffing to cooking. I love your pairing with walnuts and ricotta. Very tasty.
Amazing combi. Why did I never think of this. Love it!
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