Description
Yvonne Maffei’s Dates With Cream and Chopped Pistachios is an elegant and simple appetizer featuring sweet Medjool dates stuffed with crunchy almonds and topped with velvety crème fraîche, fresh citrus zest, and a sprinkle of crunchy pistachios. This no-cook recipe combines rich textures and bright flavors, perfect for entertaining or a refined snack.
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 and dry the Medjool dates thoroughly. Make a clean, lengthwise cut along the side of each date and carefully remove the pit.
- Stuff the dates: Insert two whole almonds into each pitted date, then gently pinch the date closed around the nuts. You can prepare the stuffed dates up to two days ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenience.
- Assemble and serve: When ready to serve, arrange the dates cut side up on a platter or serving plate. Drizzle each date with a dollop of crème fraîche. Sprinkle freshly grated lemon or orange zest over the dates, then finish by scattering the coarsely chopped pistachios on top. Serve immediately as elegant finger food or with small forks and knives for a sophisticated presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans according to preference.
- Use freshly grated citrus zest for the best flavor — lemon offers a brighter acidity, while orange adds a sweeter, fragrant note.
- Prepare the stuffed dates up to two days in advance and keep refrigerated to save time before serving.
- This recipe works well as an appetizer or a sweet snack at gatherings.
- For a dairy-free alternative, consider substituting crème fraîche with coconut cream or another creamy non-dairy topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Dates, stuffed dates, almonds, crème fraîche, pistachios, Mediterranean appetizer, no-cook recipe, elegant finger food
