Begin by soaking 24 toothpicks in a small container of water
This will prevent them from burning in the oven
Cut a lengthwise slice in the center top of each date
Make sure it is big enough to hold the cheese but don't slice all the way through the date
Remove the seed
Slice prosciutto into 24 pieces about 2 1/2 inches long or however long you prefer to securely wrap the stuffed dates over the basil leaf
Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silpat mat
Lay out the
24 prepped dates
The slices of prosciutto
1/2 Cup goat cheese (you can use any variety or flavor)
24 fresh basil leaves on a board within easy reach
To assemble the stuffed dates
Scoop up a teaspoon of soft goat cheese and push it into your sliced date
Wrap a leaf of basil around the date
Next, wrap a piece of prosciutto around the basil
Pierce the date through with a soaked toothpick
Lay the finished date on your baking sheet
Repeat until all dates are stuffed and wrapped
Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until crispy
Remove from oven and set on serving tray
You can drizzle with balsamic dressing if desired
Serve hot!