bacon.cream cheese.dates

I'm so pleased to use this post to introduce my amazing readers to my beautiful friend Shea's blog, Tenacious Taste.  She's only been at it a week, and her site already looks absolutely amazing!  Please check it out for some healthy, inventive and simply delicious recipes; you won't be disappointed - promise.

Now, onto these little bundles of goodness pictured above.  Shea and I served these along with several other tapas (and even more bottles of wine) a few weeks ago, and, needless to say, they were to die for.  If you ever need a unique and elegant appetizer, look no further.  They have incredible depth in the flavor department with the saltiness of the bacon, sweetness of the dates, and the creaminess of the cheese.  I've made them several times since then, and they have never ceased to be the star of the show.  

Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates

1 container of dried dates (I recommend the ones with the pits)

1 package of cream cheese

1 package of bacon

Toothpicks (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Sauté bacon on medium heat in a frying pan.  Flip the strips once the edges begin to curve, and remove when it is still undercooked.  

Meanwhile, cut dates length-wise just enough to remove the pit.  They will look like they have been butterflied (see photo above).  Take a spoon, and scoop out a small bit of cream cheese to stuff the date (about half a tablespoon per date).  

Once stuffed, take the bacon and wrap it around the date so that the bacon holds it together.  Use a toothpick to secure the bacon.  

Place dates on a cookie sheet, and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until bacon is thoroughly cooked.

xx

A

p.s. Since it's almost the big V-day, these would be a simple and delicious appi-teaser to make for your beau (or girlfriends!) if you're planning on staying in and enjoying the night :)