Stuffed Dates

I got to taste these stuffed dates for the first time in one of the restaurants in Milan. They were stuffed with goat cheese which I personally didn't like.  But then, I was inspired by the simplicity of the dish. So, I had made up to substitute goat cheese with mascarpone (Italian cream cheese) & it turned out so good. 

Dates are rich in dietary fiber. They are excellent source of potassium, vitamins & minerals. These can be called a powerhouse packed in a tiny package. 

Ingredients

200g dates

5 tbsp mascarpone (or any cream cheese)

50g almonds

1.5 -2 tbsp sugar

Few coarsely chopped pistachios for topping

Method

• In a bowl gently whisk mascarpone and sugar until you get a smooth cream. 
• Add coarsely chopped almonds, mix well and let it rest in the refrigerator. 
• Make a slit on one side of the date, open it up a bit and pull out seed (leave ends intact). 
• Fill the dates with the prepared cream and keep them in the refrigerator. 
• Before serving sprinkle with coarsely chopped pistachios.