Warm Dates with Lemon Goat Cheese and Pumpkin Seeds

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven

   Preheat the oven to 190 °C, using conventional top and bottom heat. Line a small baking tray with parchment paper.

   
2. 2

   Toast the pumpkin seeds

   Toast the pumpkin seeds in a small dry pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Shake the pan regularly; once the seeds smell fragrant and begin to turn golden in places, transfer them to a plate.

   
3. 3

   Season the goat cheese

   In a bowl, mix the goat cheese with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth and spreadable.

   
4. 4

   Fill the dates

   Cut each date lengthwise so it can be opened, but keep it intact. Place approximately 6 g of the cheese mixture inside each date and arrange them on the prepared tray.

   
5. 5

   Bake briefly and finish

   Bake the dates for 8 minutes at 190 °C, until heated through and the cheese has softened, but before the dates start to collapse. Serve warm, topped with the toasted pumpkin seeds and chopped parsley.