Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Bacon-wrapped dates are a delicious and savory appetizer that combines the sweetness of dates with the smoky and salty flavors of bacon. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for entertaining or as a tasty snack. The combination of crispy bacon and soft, caramelized dates creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
INGREDIENTS
- Medjool dates, pitted
- Bacon slices (thin-cut or regular)
- Toothpicks (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Take each pitted date and stuff it with a small piece of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese. You can also use almonds or other nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Cut the bacon slices into halves or thirds, depending on the size of your dates. Wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the bacon-wrapped dates in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bacon-wrapped dates cool slightly before serving. If using toothpicks, make sure to remove them before eating.
Serve the bacon-wrapped dates as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
TIPS
- Use fresh and plump Medjool dates for the best results. If your dates are dry, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes to soften them before stuffing and wrapping with bacon.
- Experiment with different types of cheese or fillings to customize the flavors. Some popular options include cream cheese, feta cheese, cheddar cheese, or even a combination of cheeses.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle the bacon-wrapped dates with a pinch of black pepper, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of honey before baking.
- If you prefer a crispier bacon, you can broil the bacon-wrapped dates for a couple of minutes at the end of the cooking time.
- If you’re short on time, you can also cook the bacon-wrapped dates in a skillet over medium heat until the bacon is crispy and cooked through.
- Bacon-wrapped dates can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until needed. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories per serving (4-6 pieces)
- Protein: Around 2-4 grams per serving
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving
- Fat: Around 6-8 grams per serving
