The spotlight is on the delectable Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates recipe, a fusion of flavors that promises to tantalize your taste buds. In this exquisite creation, succulent Medjool dates take center stage, their natural sweetness contrasting with the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon. But that’s not all – nestled within these delectable bundles is a surprise filling, a symphony of creamy and tangy notes that elevate each bite to gourmet heights.
This appetizer is more than just a dish; it’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that dance across your palate. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or seeking a unique addition to your culinary repertoire, the Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates will undoubtedly steal the show.
Get ready to awaken your senses and embark on a culinary journey that embraces the beauty of contrast and complexity.
What to serve with bacon-wrapped stuffed dates?
Pairing options for bacon-wrapped stuffed dates are as diverse as they are delicious. Here are a few suggestions to complement the rich flavors of this appetizer:
Cheese Platter
Create a cheese platter featuring an assortment of cheeses, such as blue cheese, goat cheese, or creamy Brie. The creamy, tangy qualities of cheese provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and salty bacon-wrapped stuffed dates.
Mixed Nuts
A bowl of mixed nuts, including almonds, walnuts, and pecans, adds a crunchy element that contrasts well with the soft texture of the dates.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Serve bacon-wrapped dates alongside stuffed mushrooms for a savory combination. Stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs create a harmonious pairing.
Arugula Salad
A light arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing and slightly peppery note that complements the richness of the dates.
Crostini
Offer toasted crostini topped with various spreads, such as hummus, olive tapenade, or roasted red pepper spread. These spreads provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the dates.
Charcuterie Board
Include an assortment of cured meats, like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo, on a charcuterie board. The combination of meats and the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates will create a flavor-packed experience.
Sparkling Wine or Cider
To drink, consider serving sparkling wine or sparkling cider. The effervescence helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Can you reheat bacon wrapped stuffed dates?
You can definitely reheat bacon-wrapped stuffed dates. To do so, preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish, making sure they are spaced out and not touching each other. This allows the bacon to crisp up properly.
Reheat the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and heated through. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as bacon can burn easily.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave, but this method may result in slightly less crispy bacon. Use short bursts of 20-30 seconds to avoid overheating and making the bacon rubbery.
Can bacon-wrapped stuffed dates be frozen?
Bacon-wrapped stuffed dates can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain their quality. When you’re ready to eat them, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully heated.
What are the ingredients to make Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates?
This recipe has a prep time of 10 minutes and cook time of 20 minutes. However, these quick and easy appetizers are sure to be a big hit, so feel free to double or triple this recipe to make sure you have enough on hand.
Here are the ingredients you’re going to need for 24 appetizers:
- Medjool dates – These provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture to the dish, serving as a base for the stuffing.
- Goat cheese – Adds creaminess, tanginess, and a savory element to complement the sweetness of the dates.
- Blanched almonds – Add a crunch and nutty flavor, creating a textural contrast with the soft dates and creamy goat cheese.
- Honey – Contributes sweetness that balances the savory and tangy flavors.
- Bacon – Infuses the dish with its rich smoky flavor.
- Fresh parsley leaves – Optional for garnishing.
How to make Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates?
It’s time to put this recipe together now that you’ve gathered all of your ingredients.
- First, place the top oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat™ baking mat and set it aside.
- Next, pit the dates by carefully cutting a slit down one side with a sharp knife. Remove pits and discard then set aside.
- Now add the goat cheese, almonds, and two tablespoons of honey to a medium bowl and stir to combine. Fill each pitted date with some of the goat cheese mixture and gently squeeze closed and set aside.
- Place one-half slice of bacon on a clean work surface with a stuffed date on top. Roll until the date is wrapped in the bacon and secure with a toothpick to hold together.
- Repeat this process with the remaining bacon and stuffed dates.
- After that, arrange the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet and place in the pre-heated oven. Bake until the bacon is evenly cooked, and the dates are heated through for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the dates two or three times with tongs while cooking to ensure even results.
- Lastly, remove from the oven and drizzle with remaining honey and garnish with the fresh parsley, if using, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
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Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates
These quick and easy appetizers are sure to be a big hit, so feel free to double or triple this recipe to make sure you have enough on hand.
Ingredients
- 24 large whole Medjool dates
- 6 oz. goat cheese, room temperature
- ½ c. blanched almonds, slivered
- 3 T. honey, divided
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- Optional: 1 T. fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Place the top oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat™ baking mat and set aside.
- Pit the dates by carefully cutting a slit down one side with a sharp knife. Remove pits and discard. Set aside.
- Add goat cheese, almonds, and two tablespoons of honey to a medium bowl and stir to combine. Fill each pitted date with some of the goat cheese mixture and gently squeeze closed. Set aside.
- Place one-half slice of bacon on a clean work surface with a stuffed date on top. Roll until the date is wrapped in the bacon and secure with a toothpick to hold together.
- Repeat this process with the remaining bacon and stuffed dates.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet and place in the pre-heated oven. Bake until the bacon is evenly cooked, and the dates are heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Flip the dates two or three times with tongs while cooking to ensure even results.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with remaining honey and garnish with the fresh parsley, if using, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
24Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 132Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 130mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 2gSugar: 18gProtein: 4g
These nutritional calculations might not be accurate. Please speak with a licensed nutritionist to assist you.