Date Night?

If you’ve ever been asked about your most memorable date, I’m willing to bet that what first came to mind didn’t involve medjools, deglet noors, or any variety of the fruit form of dates. While we’re on the subject, though, given that the arrival of fall is undeniably romantic and an ideal time for harvesting dates (the edible kind, but perhaps otherwise, too), it seems rather serendipitous: This is the season to stock your pantry to impress whoever you care about—and, of course, yourself—with balanced meals courtesy of one of nature’s best sweeteners. 

First, set the mood with a small but mighty appetizer—dates blended into a savory-sweet pâté with generous portions of grilled bread, vibrant pickles, and hot (if not spicy) mustard will do the job. If the night feels like it’s only getting started, move onto roasted cauliflower that pairs perfectly with a spiced yogurt sauce and chopped dates nestled into the mix. Should things be going even better than anticipated, keep the oven going and the stove on for roast chicken with date gravy and date stuffing.