Last Updated on August 1, 2025
As a food enthusiast, I often find myself exploring the interplay of flavors in the dishes I create. One of my recent obsessions is prosciutto wrapped dates. They have become an essential element of my entertaining repertoire. Whenever I bring these to a gathering, the response is always overwhelming. They never fail to charm guests and ignite conversations.
When paired with an Italian pasta salad, these little bites shine even brighter. Imagine creamy chickpeas, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty dressing entwined with the sweetness of dates and the saltiness of prosciutto. Now that’s a match made in culinary heaven. Let’s dive deeper into the delightful world of prosciutto wrapped dates.
What are Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
At their essence, prosciutto wrapped dates are a simple, yet exquisite hors d’oeuvre combining the sweet richness of dates with the savory, salty flavor of prosciutto. They might sound simple, but these little bundles are a study in contrasts: the soft, caramelized texture of the dates meets the crispy, salty nature of the prosciutto. It’s a delightful bite that truly does keep you coming back for more.

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Ingredients
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delightful appetizer:
- 2 to 3 thin slices of prosciutto (the heart of the dish)
- ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional and sweet)
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional, to amp up the flavor)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled Gorgonzola, creamy goat cheese, or grated Gruyère (build your flavor profile)
- 6 large Medjool dates, pitted (the sweet soul of this creation)
These ingredients are fairly easy to source, and I assure you, fresh ones will make all the difference.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
The process is straightforward, and it’s a dish that not only looks beautiful but also makes you feel like a kitchen wizard. Let’s jump right into the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start with your Medjool dates. The first step is to pit them if they aren’t already. Simply slice down one side of each date to remove the pit. This will create an opening for the filling. Don’t worry; no one has to know about your slicing mishap if you make one. Just make them presentable!
Step 2: Choose Your Filling
Now comes a crucial part: the choice of filling. Depending on your taste, you might opt for creamy goat cheese for its tang, or perhaps Gorgonzola for a sharp bite. Gruyère is an excellent choice if you want that classic richness without overwhelming the other flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine cheeses for an exquisite taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
Once you’ve made your choice, stuff the filling into each date. Aim for about a teaspoon of cheese per date. You can use a small spoon or your fingers – my advice is to embrace the mess! It feels good to really engage with your food.
Step 4: Wrap with Prosciutto
Now, let’s wrap up those dates! Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it snugly around each stuffed date. There’s no need to be overly precise. The beauty lies in the imperfect wrapping that keeps it rustic and homely. If your prosciutto tears, just overlap another piece. Remember, it’s a cozy hug, not a straitjacket.
Step 5: Secure and Arrange
If you’re concerned about the prosciutto unwrapping, use a toothpick to keep everything in place. Arrange your little masterpieces on a serving platter. You might want to drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top to enhance that sweet-salty contrast.
Step 6: Bake or Grill
The final step can be done one of two ways. You can choose to bake or grill the wrapped dates. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes or until the prosciutto gets nice and crispy. Alternatively, grill them over medium heat for 10 minutes, turning once. Whichever method you use, just keep an eye out for that crispy texture.

Notes
Before you dive headfirst into preparation, consider these handy tips:
Select Quality Prosciutto: It’s worth it to seek out good-quality prosciutto. The flavor intensifies with quality.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese variations according to your preference. Each twist offers a unique spin on flavors.
Fresh Herbs are Key: Fresh rosemary elevates the dish. If you have other herbs on hand, feel free to experiment.
Serve Warm: Prosciutto wrapped dates are best enjoyed warm. They’re simply more indulgent that way.
Great for Meal Prep: Prepping ahead of time frees you up for more creativity when entertaining. You can assemble these a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), here’s how to store them:
Refrigerate: Place them in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to three days.
Reheat: Simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Freeze: You can freeze uncooked wrapped dates. Just be sure to thaw and bake them directly from frozen when ready.
Nutrition Information
For those interested in nutritional value, each prosciutto-wrapped date (with cheese and a little honey) provides an array of nutrients. On average, one piece contains:
These numbers can vary based on the type of cheese and the amount of honey used.

Serving Suggestions
Thinking about how to present these delights? Here are a few ideas:
1. Charcuterie Board wow: Include your prosciutto wrapped dates on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, nuts, and fruits. It’s an effortless way to create a conversation starter.
2. Atop a Salad: Elevate your summer salads by adding these wrapped gems as toppings, bringing both flavor and texture.
3. As Appetizers: Serve them as a cocktail party mainstay. A drink in one hand, and these in another ensure smiles all around.
4. With a Dip: Pair with balsamic reduction or a tangy yogurt sauce for added zing. The interplay of flavors will keep guests guessing.
5. In a Pita: Combine these treasures with some greens and a drizzle of herb olive oil in a pita for a delightful lunch option. It’s effortless yet profound in taste.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
If you’re looking for other exciting flavors or dietary adjustments, consider these substitutions:
Bacon: For a strong smoky flavor, replace prosciutto with bacon. Wrap tightly and adjust cooking time accordingly.
Vegan Prosciutto: For plant-based options, try using vegan prosciutto. It won’t have quite the same flavor but will maintain the presentation.
Almonds: Instead of cheese, stuff the dates with roasted almonds for a satisfying crunch.
Sundried Tomatoes: Add a tangy kick by including sundried tomatoes with the cheese. It pairs wonderfully with the saltiness.
Nut Butters: If you’d like adventurous flavors, almond or pecan butter can be nestled in dates for a creamy treat.
Conclusion
Prosciutto wrapped dates are more than just an appetizer; they’re a delightful experience of flavor that brings people together. The blend of sweet and salty turns this dish into an instant classic.
As I gather with friends or family, these little bites always elicit smiles and conversations. Whether it’s for a summer gathering, a cozy dinner, or a picnic, these wrapped delights never disappoint. So, what are you waiting for? Get into the kitchen and give it a go—you’ll find that these will quickly become a favorite!
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Prosciutto Wrapped Dates Recipe -Easy Meal Recipe
Description
At their essence, prosciutto wrapped dates are a simple, yet exquisite hors d'oeuvre combining the sweet richness of dates with the savory, salty flavor of prosciutto. They might sound simple, but these little bundles are a study in contrasts: the soft, caramelized texture of the dates meets the crispy, salty nature of the prosciutto. It’s a delightful bite that truly does keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
The process is straightforward, and it's a dish that not only looks beautiful but also makes you feel like a kitchen wizard. Let’s jump right into the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
-
Start with your Medjool dates. The first step is to pit them if they aren’t already. Simply slice down one side of each date to remove the pit. This will create an opening for the filling. Don’t worry; no one has to know about your slicing mishap if you make one. Just make them presentable!
Step 2: Choose Your Filling
-
Now comes a crucial part: the choice of filling. Depending on your taste, you might opt for creamy goat cheese for its tang, or perhaps Gorgonzola for a sharp bite. Gruyère is an excellent choice if you want that classic richness without overwhelming the other flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine cheeses for an exquisite taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
-
Once you’ve made your choice, stuff the filling into each date. Aim for about a teaspoon of cheese per date. You can use a small spoon or your fingers – my advice is to embrace the mess! It feels good to really engage with your food.
Step 4: Wrap with Prosciutto
-
Now, let’s wrap up those dates! Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it snugly around each stuffed date. There’s no need to be overly precise. The beauty lies in the imperfect wrapping that keeps it rustic and homely. If your prosciutto tears, just overlap another piece. Remember, it’s a cozy hug, not a straitjacket.
Step 5: Secure and Arrange
-
If you’re concerned about the prosciutto unwrapping, use a toothpick to keep everything in place. Arrange your little masterpieces on a serving platter. You might want to drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top to enhance that sweet-salty contrast.
Step 6: Bake or Grill
-
The final step can be done one of two ways. You can choose to bake or grill the wrapped dates. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes or until the prosciutto gets nice and crispy. Alternatively, grill them over medium heat for 10 minutes, turning once. Whichever method you use, just keep an eye out for that crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 75kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.5g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.3g2%
- Cholesterol 1mg1%
- Sodium 30mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 19g7%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 16g
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Before you dive headfirst into preparation, consider these handy tips:
Select Quality Prosciutto: It’s worth it to seek out good-quality prosciutto. The flavor intensifies with quality.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese variations according to your preference. Each twist offers a unique spin on flavors.
Fresh Herbs are Key: Fresh rosemary elevates the dish. If you have other herbs on hand, feel free to experiment.
Serve Warm: Prosciutto wrapped dates are best enjoyed warm. They’re simply more indulgent that way.
Great for Meal Prep: Prepping ahead of time frees you up for more creativity when entertaining. You can assemble these a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare prosciutto wrapped dates ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bake just before serving.
2. How can I make prosciutto wrapped dates gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your prosciutto is gluten-free (most are) and you're good to go.
3. Can I add other toppings?
Certainly! Experiment with different toppings, such as crumbled nuts, herbs, or spicy pepper flakes.
4. What beverages pair well with prosciutto wrapped dates?
Try serving with a light white wine, a fruity sangria, or even a sparkling water. They enhance the experience beautifully.
5. Are there vegetarian alternatives?
Yes, you can substitute the prosciutto with thin slices of eggplant. Just marinate and oven-bake them for a great texture and flavor combination.