This four-ingredient appetizer is one of our favorite delicious side dishes.

In 2016, one of our most popular Facebook posts introduced a simple yet tasty appetizer—combining sweet Medjool dates with savory Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and slightly bitter walnuts to create an unforgettable flavor. This appetizer can be prepared up to 8 hours before serving and heated up just before eating, making it perfect for advance preparation. The combination of its four ingredients was a hit, with the sweet and savory flavors being exhilarating and etched in our memories as a culinary delight.

Hot Dates Stuffed with Parmesan and Walnuts

Ingredients:

• 24 large dates, preferably Medjool variety

• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil or walnut oil (plus extra for drizzling)

• 2 ounces (about 60 grams) of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

• 24 walnut halves

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 180°C).

2. Using a peeler or sharp knife, make a lengthwise slit in each date and carefully remove the pit. Place the pitted dates in a bowl and gently toss with 2 teaspoons of olive oil.

3. Arrange the dates on a baking sheet or shallow dish with the slit side facing up. Use a vegetable peeler to shave the cheese into small pieces. Stuff each date with a piece of cheese and half a walnut.

4. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the dates are heated through.

5. Remove the baked dates, arrange them on a serving plate, and drizzle with additional olive oil before serving. This appetizer serves 6 to 8 people.