These Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. The creamy blue cheese filling contrasts beautifully with the crispy bacon, while the hint of honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the richness. Garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs enhances the dish’s visual appeal, making it an elegant addition to any appetizer spread.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a special treat, these stuffed dates are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and full of flavor, making them the ideal snack for any occasion. Serve them as a bite-sized appetizer at your next gathering, or enjoy them as a savory snack for a cozy night in.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 strips of bacon, cut in half
- 3 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of blue cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-strip of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
- Drizzle with honey and garnish with rosemary if desired.
- Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 135 kcal | Servings: 6
When it comes to appetizers, few dishes are as versatile and crowd-pleasing as Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates. This delicious dish combines the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors, making it an excellent addition to any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, dinner party, or holiday celebration. But what makes this recipe so special, and why is it a must-try? Let’s dive into the reasons behind its deliciousness and the benefits of incorporating it into your next gathering.
The Origins and Appeal of Bacon-Wrapped Dates
The concept of pairing dates with savory ingredients like cheese and bacon has its roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where dates are often used in both sweet and savory dishes. Dates, prized for their natural sweetness, pair beautifully with the richness of cheese and the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon. This specific recipe, Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates, takes this simple yet delightful combination to the next level by stuffing the dates with creamy blue cheese, which brings a tangy, bold flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the dates.
Though Bacon-Wrapped Dates are often found on tapas menus in Spain or as a part of Mediterranean mezze platters, this dish has gained worldwide popularity due to its easy preparation and irresistible flavors. Over time, many variations have emerged, but the combination of blue cheese and bacon has become a crowd favorite because it delivers complex flavors in a simple bite-sized format.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors One of the main reasons why Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are so beloved is the flavor balance they offer. The natural sweetness of the dates pairs wonderfully with the salty crunch of the bacon, while the blue cheese adds a rich, tangy creaminess that elevates the entire dish. This sweet-salty combination makes them the ultimate snack for those who crave variety in their bites.
- Easy and Quick to Prepare Despite how gourmet these stuffed dates may seem, they are incredibly simple and quick to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients—Medjool dates, bacon, blue cheese, honey, and a garnish of rosemary—this recipe doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want to impress their guests with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for an elegant appetizer for a dinner party or a delicious snack for a game day gathering, this recipe fits the bill.
- Crowd-Pleaser Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a casual BBQ or a fancy holiday dinner, they are sure to be a hit with your guests. The fact that they are bite-sized makes them easy to eat, and their combination of sweet and savory flavors appeals to a wide range of tastes. Moreover, the versatility of this dish makes it suitable for various dietary preferences and party themes.
- Health Benefits of Dates While this recipe may seem indulgent, dates themselves come with impressive health benefits. Dates are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and natural sugars, which makes them a great source of energy. They are also packed with potassium, which supports heart health, and magnesium, which is essential for proper muscle and nerve function. Adding dates to your diet can contribute to better digestive health, as they promote regularity and prevent constipation.
- Blue Cheese: A Flavor and Nutrient Powerhouse Blue cheese, while often viewed as a decadent indulgence, is also loaded with nutrients. It contains a high amount of protein, calcium, and vitamins like B12, which support bone health, energy production, and nerve function. Blue cheese is also known for its unique probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Despite being high in fat, when consumed in moderation, blue cheese can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. It adds not only flavor but also health benefits to the dish.
- The Bacon Factor Bacon, a universally loved ingredient, contributes its distinctive smokiness and crunch to this recipe. It’s high in protein and fats, which makes it a satisfying addition to a dish like this. While bacon is considered an indulgent ingredient, it is best enjoyed in moderation, and when paired with nutrient-dense ingredients like dates and blue cheese, it becomes a flavorful component that enhances the overall taste experience.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are perfect on their own, but they can also be served alongside other appetizers for a varied spread. Serve them with a side of fresh greens, a tangy dipping sauce, or a fruit platter. If you’re hosting a Mediterranean-themed dinner, these stuffed dates would complement dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, or Greek salad.
For those who are looking to switch things up, there are plenty of variations you can try with this recipe. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, substitute it with goat cheese or cream cheese for a milder flavor. You can also experiment by adding nuts such as almonds or pecans inside the dates for an added crunch. If you prefer to skip the bacon, you can try wrapping the dates in prosciutto for a leaner option or make a vegetarian version by stuffing the dates with cheese and omitting the bacon entirely.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe
Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are the perfect appetizer for anyone who loves sweet and savory flavor combinations. They are quick to prepare, easy to serve, and can be enjoyed at any event, from a casual snack to a formal dinner. With their impressive flavor profile, they are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re a bacon enthusiast, a cheese lover, or just someone who enjoys simple, delicious food, this recipe is a must-try.
By incorporating high-quality ingredients such as dates, blue cheese, and bacon, you are not only creating a dish that is bursting with flavor, but one that offers nutritional benefits as well. These stuffed dates are the perfect balance of indulgence and health, making them a truly exceptional choice for your next appetizer or party snack.
Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and indulge in the rich, savory goodness of Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates! This easy-to-make recipe will elevate any gathering and leave your guests asking for more.