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Rich in Health: Dates + A Sweet, Salty, and Simple Appetizer



When it comes to holiday potlucks, you want something easy, delicious, and impressive—and these prosciutto-wrapped dates check every box! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up an appetizer that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also dietitian-approved.


Dates are naturally sweet and packed with fiber and potassium, which support digestion and hydration—perfect for the busy holiday season. Pair that with the savory saltiness of prosciutto and a drizzle of honey, and you’ve got the ultimate flavor balance.


Here’s how I made them: I stuffed the dates with a bit of fig spread, wrapped them in prosciutto, and popped them in the oven at my friend’s house to crisp them up. A drizzle of honey at the end brought it all together for an appetizer everyone couldn’t stop raving about!


Why This Appetizer is a Dietitian-Approved Choice


  • Dates for Natural Sweetness & Nutrients: Dates are rich in natural sugars, making them a fantastic energy booster. They also provide fiber, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, which support heart health and digestion.

  • Prosciutto for Protein: The salty, savory prosciutto adds depth of flavor and a touch of protein, making these dates a more balanced appetizer.

  • Fig Spread for a Gourmet Touch: Figs bring additional sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants to the mix, complementing the dates beautifully.

  • Honey for a Sweet Finish: A light drizzle of honey ties all the flavors together while offering antibacterial properties and a touch of natural sweetness.


Dates: Nature’s Sweet Superfood

Dates are not just sweet; they’re also incredibly nutritious. These small but mighty fruits are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They also provide a natural source of potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. Here's why you should enjoy dates regularly:

  • Rich in Fiber: Dates are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help promote digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.

  • Packed with Potassium: Potassium helps balance fluid levels in your body, supporting healthy blood pressure and muscle function.

  • Antioxidant Power: Dates contain antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid, which fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.




Ingredients

  • 1 package of Medjool dates

  • 1 jar of fig spread

  • 1 package of prosciutto (thinly sliced)

  • 1-2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates: Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pits. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want the date to stay intact enough to hold the filling.

  2. Add Fig Spread: Using a small spoon, spread a thin layer of fig spread inside each date. The amount can be adjusted based on your preference for sweetness.

  3. Wrap with Prosciutto: Tear each slice of prosciutto in half lengthwise and wrap one piece around each filled date. Make sure the prosciutto overlaps slightly to secure it.

  4. Cook to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp.

  5. Drizzle with Honey: Once cooked, transfer the dates to a serving platter and drizzle lightly with honey for the finishing touch.



Why You’ll Love These Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates

  • Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and simple steps, these dates come together quickly, making them a great last-minute appetizer for parties and gatherings.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet, savory, and salty flavors makes these dates a guaranteed hit at any event.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make these ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to pop them in the oven for a quick cook.

  • Great for Entertaining: These are perfect finger foods that add a touch of elegance to any spread.

  • Customizable: Want to mix it up? Try stuffing the dates with goat cheese or almonds before wrapping them with prosciutto.


Serving Tips

  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

  • Pair with a sparkling wine or a light, fruity red for an extra-special touch.

  • Arrange them on a charcuterie board with cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit to create a stunning appetizer platter.


These Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates are proof that appetizers don’t have to be complicated to be impressive. With their perfect balance of flavors and easy prep, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.


What’s your favorite way to customize this classic appetizer? Let me know in the comments below!


xo,

Samantha


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This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. I only recommend products I genuinely love and use in my own kitchen.

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