Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Manchego
Who doesn’t love the combination of sweet and savory? It’s a match made in heaven, and one dish that perfectly embodies this delightful contrast is bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego cheese. With the sweetness of the dates, the saltiness of the bacon, and the creamy tanginess of the Manchego, this appetizer is sure to please your taste buds.
The Perfect Bite
Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent date, wrapped in crispy bacon, and filled with gooey, melted Manchego cheese. The flavors explode in your mouth, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. It’s a small bite that packs a big punch, making it the perfect starter for any occasion.
The Sweetness of Dates
Dates are a natural delicacy that brings a unique sweetness to any dish. Their rich, caramel-like flavor pairs perfectly with the salty richness of bacon and the creamy, nutty notes of Manchego cheese. The combination is simply irresistible, making bacon wrapped dates a crowd favorite at parties and gatherings.
The Crispy Bacon Factor
Let’s talk about bacon for a moment. The sizzling sound as it cooks, the mouthwatering aroma that fills the air, and the crispy texture that adds a delightful crunch to any dish. Bacon is the star of the show in this appetizer. It wraps around the dates, locking in their sweetness and adding a savory element that takes this dish to a whole new level.
The Creamy Tang of Manchego
Manchego cheese is a Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a distinct flavor that is both creamy and tangy, with a hint of nuttiness. When melted, it becomes gooey and indulgent, creating a luscious filling for the dates. Its unique taste complements the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While Manchego cheese is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
A: Of course! Turkey bacon is a healthier alternative and still provides a delicious taste. Just note that the texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I add any other fillings?
A: Absolutely! Get creative and experiment with different fillings like almonds, pecans, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can substitute the bacon with strips of roasted red pepper or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Q: Can I bake these in the oven?
A: Yes, baking is the most common method for cooking bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego. It ensures that the bacon gets crispy and the cheese melts perfectly.
Q: Can I serve these as a main course?
A: While bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego are typically served as an appetizer, you can certainly enjoy them as a main course alongside a salad or other side dishes.
Q: Can I freeze these for later?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before baking.
In Conclusion
Bacon wrapped dates stuffed with Manchego are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. They are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a tasty appetizer to enjoy with a glass of wine, these delectable bites will surely impress your guests and leave them craving for more. So, go ahead and indulge in this irresistible treat!
Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Manchego
Ingredients
- 15 Medjool dates , pits removed
- 1 pound of aged Manchego cheese , cut into 15 pieces
- 5 slices of bacon , each sliced into three pieces
- 1/2 cup of maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Cut a slit on one side of each date and insert a piece of Manchego cheese. Press the date to close the slit and secure it.
- Wrap each date with a strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- Roast the dates in the oven until the bacon on top starts to become crispy, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Flip the dates over and continue cooking until the other side of the bacon becomes crispy as well.
- Take the dates out of the oven and brush both sides with maple syrup.
- Return the dates to the oven and bake until they become crackly and sticky, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve the dates hot.
