These stuffed dates make a great addition to a fruit and cheese plattter.

Instead of stuffing the dates yourself, let your guests stuff them! Spoon the prepared spread into a serving bowl. Then prepare the date "shells," place on serving plate and let your guests stuff the dates themselves. Or for added color, spoon the prepared spread into hollowed-out bell pepper shells instead of the serving bowl.

Toasting nuts adds crunch and intensifies their flavor. To toast nuts in the oven, spread nuts in single layer in shallow baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 min. or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. To toast nuts on the stovetop, place nuts in ungreased skillet. Cook on medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently. To toast nuts in the microwave, place up to 1 cup of nuts in a microwaveable shallow dish. Microwave on HIGH until fragrant and crisp, stirring every 30 sec.