Ingredients with Measurements:
- 24 pitted dates
- 12 thin slices of pancetta
- 1/4 cup of goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- Toothpicks
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese, honey, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with a small amount of the goat cheese mixture.
4. Wrap each stuffed date with a slice of pancetta and secure with a toothpick.
5. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pancetta is crispy and the dates are heated through.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
This recipe makes 24 pancetta-wrapped dates, serving 6-8 people as an appetizer.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 230mg
Total carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 12g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of goat cheese, you can use cream cheese or blue cheese.
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Instead of pancetta, you can use bacon or prosciutto.
Variations:
- Add a small piece of almond or pecan inside each date before stuffing with the goat cheese mixture.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the wrapped dates before serving.
- Substitute the goat cheese mixture with a mixture of cream cheese and chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the pancetta is wrapped tightly around the date to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- If the pancetta is not crispy enough, broil the wrapped dates for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve the pancetta-wrapped dates warm for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover pancetta-wrapped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the pancetta-wrapped dates on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the pancetta-wrapped dates on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, balsamic glaze, chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Pair with a sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
- Crusty bread or crackers.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pancetta is not wrapping tightly around the date, use a toothpick to secure it in place.
- If the cheese mixture is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before stuffing the dates.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the dates are pitted before stuffing to prevent choking hazards.
- Store any leftover pancetta-wrapped dates in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days.
Food history:
Pancetta-wrapped dates are a popular appetizer in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and Italy.
Flavor profiles:
The sweet and chewy dates are balanced by the salty and crispy pancetta, while the creamy goat cheese adds a tangy and savory flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the pancetta-wrapped dates as an appetizer for a dinner party or as a snack for a casual gathering.
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Region: Italian