Looking for a light, Mediterranean, candy-like dessert that is sure to wow the crowds? Well, try this one on for size. It is super simple to create, a healthy alternative to most desserts and combines salty and sweet in such a way as to amaze you with how good it is. Try it… trust me. (I served mine with a touch of Metaxa 5, but Ouzo would have worked just as well.
OPA! – Chez
- 1 c blanched almonds
- 1 cup pistachios (1/2 c coarsely chopped and 1/2 c whole… shelled of course)
- 1 tbs fig jam or orange marmalade
- 1 tbs whole milk
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted and split on one side and opened
- ½ tsp Kosher salt
Pulse almonds in a food processor to create a paste.
Add milk, jam or marmalade to paste and pulse to mix.
Add ¼ cup of the chopped pistachios to paste and combine
Mix salt and remaining chopped nuts
Stuff about ½ tsp of nut paste into each date, top with salted nut mixture
Serve on a bed of whole pistachios.
