Appetizers

Nutty Medjool Date Cheese Ball

• 8 oz. fresh Medjool dates (pitted and minced)
• 8 oz. mascarpone or softened cream cheese
• 2 oz. minced pecans (preferably toasted)
• 2 Tbsp minced fresh rosemary mint and/or cherry

Combine cream cheese or mascarpone cheese with 1/2 the minced pecans and all the Medjool dates. (Optional: add rosemary as well) Mix well and form into a ball. Roll in remaining pecans and chill well. Garnish with mint/cherry and serve with favorite crackers or carrot / celery sticks.

Serves 4-6

5 Minute Stuffed Medjool Date Appetizers

• 1 lb. fresh Medjool dates
• 8 oz. softened cream cheese or mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup nuts (minced)
• 8 oz. chunky peanut butter

Split one side of Medjool date lengthwise and remove pit. Arrange dates on serving plate. Stuff half with peanut butter and the other half with the cheese. Garnish with minced nuts.

Serves 5-6

Savory Broiled Medjool Dates

• 1 lb. fresh Medjool dates
• 1 lb. sliced bacon
• 6 oz. nuts (minced)

Split one side of Medjool date lengthwise and remove pit. (Optional) stuff with one tsp. minced nuts. Wrap bacon strip around date and secure with toothpick. Place under oven broiler. Turn once to ensure even cooking and drain well before serving warm.

Serves 3-4