Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Manchego Cheese

A traditional Spanish 'tapas' item. You can also add a sprinkling of toasted breadcrumbs on top for a bit of extra crunch. May serve immediately or at room temperature.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Calories: 167 Calories

Ingredients

• 24 wooden toothpicks
• 4 ounces manchego cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
• 24 dried pitted dates
• 8 slices bacon, cut into thirds

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 2

Stuff 1 piece manchego cheese into each date and then wrap with 1 piece bacon, securing with a toothpick. Arrange dates in a shallow baking dish with the bacon seam down and 1 inch between pieces.

Step 3

Bake in preheated oven for 5 minutes, turn dates with tongs, and continue baking until bacon is crisp, 5 to 6 minutes more. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels.