How to Make Savory Stuffed Dates

These savory stuffed dates are perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, dinner parties, or any other special occasion. These delicious stuffed date appetizers have a satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors.

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Ingredients and substitutions

I like using Medjool dates in this recipe because they’re bigger than most other varieties of dates which makes them perfect for stuffing. They’re also particularly flavorful and moist.

Sautéed onions add a savory layer of flavor to these dates. You can use any type of onion you like in this recipe.

Toasted pecans add a cozy, festive flavor and plenty of richness to these dates. You can substitute other nuts such as walnuts or cashews if you prefer. Or for a nut-free version you can substitute toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

Fresh sage adds a warm, woodsy flavor to these dates. You can substitute other fresh herbs such as rosemary, tarragon, or chives if you prefer.

How to Make Savory Stuffed Dates

These date appetizers are easy to prepare. Start by adding the finely chopped onions, extra virgin olive oil, and salt to a large nonstick pan on the stove set to medium heat. Sautee for about 15 minutes or until the onions are softened and golden brown. Once the onions are golden brown, add the finely chopped fresh sage and sautee for two more minutes.

Remove the onion mixture from the heat and allow it to cool off while you remove the pits from the dates. Next you’ll use your fingers to open up the dates and coax them into a bowl shape. 

Once the onions have cooled off for a few minutes, add the finely chopped toasted pecans to the pan and stir to combine.

Add a spoonful of the onion, sage, and pecan mixture to each date, then use your fingers to press the mixture firmly into the date.

Optional Step

Tie a fresh chive around each date. Make a knot to hold the chive in place.

Preparing Them in Advance

You can prepare these dates a couple of days in advance if you like (if you’re making these for the holidays that might make things easier). Just get the dates stuffed and ready to go, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge until party time. Be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Making These for a Crowd

You can scale this recipe up if you’re feeding a crowd. Two stuffed dates per person should be perfect.

More Appetizer Recipes to Try

• This roasted garlic confit is delicious spread on crackers or baguette.
• These crispy baked cauliflower bites are an easy and delicious appetizer.

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Savory Stuffed Dates Recipe

These savory stuffed dates are perfect for Christmas, New Year's Eve, or any other special occasion. These delicious appetizers have a satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Prep Time 18 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 28 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Calories 248.7kcal

Author Jennifer Bell

Equipment

• Nonstick frying pan

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional ingredient: fresh chives to tie around the dates

Instructions

• Add the finely chopped onions, extra virgin olive oil, and salt to a large nonstick pan on the stove set to medium heat. Sautee for about 10 minutes or until the onions are softened and golden brown.
• Once the onions are golden brown, add the finely chopped fresh sage and sautee for two minutes.
• Remove that mixture from the heat and allow it to cool off while you remove the pits from the dates.
• Use your fingers to open up the dates and coax them into a bowl shape.
• Once the onion mixture has cooled off for a few minutes, add the finely chopped toasted pecans and stir to combine.
• Add a spoonful of the onion, sage, and pecan mixture to each date, then use your fingers to press the mixture firmly into the date.
• Optional step: tie a fresh chive around each date. Make a knot to hold the chive in place.
• Serve at room temperature.

Notes

• These appetizers can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• For a nut-free version, substitute pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of the pecans.

Nutrition

Serving: 2stuffed dates | Calories: 248.7kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 2.1g | Fat: 10.8g | Saturated Fat: 1.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6.8g | Sodium: 99.1mg | Potassium: 430.6mg | Fiber: 4.8g | Sugar: 33.9g | Vitamin A: 76.9IU | Vitamin C: 3.1mg | Calcium: 52.4mg | Iron: 0.9mg