Dates with Cream, Pistachios, and Citrus Zest Recipe
A simple and elegant appetizer featuring sweet Medjool dates stuffed with crunchy almonds and topped with creamy crème fraîche, vibrant citrus zest, and crunchy chopped pistachios. This delightful recipe by Yvonne Maffei offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for serving as a finger food or an appetizer at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates (serves 4 as appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dates and Nuts
- 12 large Medjool dates
- 24 whole almonds (preferably blanched), walnuts, or pecans
Toppings
- 3 to 4 tablespoons crème fraîche
- Freshly grated zest of 1 lemon or 1/2 orange (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Rinse the Medjool dates thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel. Using a small knife, make a clean slit along the side of each date and carefully remove the pit without cutting the date into two pieces.
- Stuff the Dates: Take two whole almonds and stuff them inside each pitted date. Gently pinch the date closed to secure the almonds inside. These can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- Assemble for Serving: Arrange the stuffed dates with the cut side facing up on a serving plate or platter. Drizzle the crème fraîche over each date, making a dollop. Sprinkle the freshly grated lemon or orange zest evenly over the dates, then top with the chopped pistachios. Serve immediately as an elegant finger food or with a small fork and knife.
Notes
- For nut alternatives, walnuts or pecans can be used instead of almonds.
- The recipe can be prepared up to two days in advance up to the stuffing step and stored airtight in the refrigerator.
- Use freshly grated citrus zest for the brightest flavor and aroma.
- Crème fraîche can be substituted with mascarpone or thick Greek yogurt if desired.
- Ensure dates are large and soft Medjool varieties for the best texture.
Keywords: Medjool dates, stuffed dates, appetizer, almonds, crème fraîche, pistachios, citrus zest, easy appetizer, finger food, Yvonne Maffei
