Elegant Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Almonds
Makes 24
The flavors of fresh figs (or dates, or dried figs) tangy goat cheese, salty almonds, sweet honey, and balsamic vinegar contrast to make these a delicious and very pretty appetizer. Arrange figs in a circle, tops facing in, for a flower effect. We like making them with fresh figs or dates, both are equally delicious.
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh dates, halved lengthwise, pits discarded
- 4 ounces goat cheese (aka chevre)
- 24 roasted, salted almonds
- 2-3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
Directions:
Preheat the oven on broiler for high heat. Place the date halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Top each half with about ½ teaspoon goat cheese. Place one almond on each, press to push the cheese slightly into each fig.
Broil the figs in the preheated oven until the cheese is soft and the almonds turn a rich shade of brown, 2 to 3 minutes (watch them very carefully because they can burn easily – they should not be charred, just warmed.) Remove from the broiler and let cool for 5 minutes. Arrange the figs/dates on a serving platter and drizzle balsamic vinegar. Serve warm or room temp.
