Suzanne Goin, a renowned Los Angeles chef, shares her delicious bacon-wrapped date recipe straight from her trendy wine bar, A.O.C. These delectable morsels are the perfect finger food for any party, combining the irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and salty flavors. With a soft and chewy texture, these bacon-wrapped dates are sure to be a hit. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient and crowd-pleasing appetizer option.
MAKES: 24 pieces
TIME: 35 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 24 pitted dates
- 12 slices bacon
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a few thyme leaves inside the cavity of each date.
- Cut the bacon slices in half lengthwise. Take each date and wrap it with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick or two.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven, turning them once or twice, until the bacon is crisp and cooked. This typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
- Transfer the cooked bacon-wrapped dates to a serving dish. They can be served hot immediately or refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place them in resealable plastic bags (remember to thaw them before roasting again).
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a serving platter, creating an enticing display. You can garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as sprigs of thyme or rosemary, to add an extra touch of elegance.
- Tapas Party: Serve the bacon-wrapped dates as part of a tapas spread. Pair them with other small plates like Spanish tortilla, stuffed mushrooms, or marinated olives for a flavorful and diverse selection.
- Cocktail Party: These bacon-wrapped dates make excellent finger food for cocktail parties. Serve them alongside other bite-sized appetizers like mini quiches, bruschetta, or skewered meatballs. They pair well with a variety of cocktails and drinks.
- Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the bacon-wrapped dates into a charcuterie board. Arrange them alongside cured meats, cheeses, bread, crackers, and fruits for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Brunch Addition: Add a touch of indulgence to your brunch menu by serving bacon-wrapped dates. They can be served alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, mini sandwiches, or a variety of pastries.
- Holiday Gathering: These bacon-wrapped dates are a hit during holiday celebrations. They make a delicious addition to a festive appetizer spread and can be enjoyed as a savory treat amidst the holiday flavors.
- Outdoor Barbecue: Fire up the grill and cook the bacon-wrapped dates outdoors for a smoky twist. Serve them as a tasty appetizer before the main course or include them as part of a grilled food buffet.
- Dinner Party Starter: Start your dinner party with a plate of warm bacon-wrapped dates. The combination of flavors and textures will set the tone for a memorable dining experience.
Remember to provide toothpicks or small skewers alongside the bacon-wrapped dates for easy serving and consumption. These suggestions will help you incorporate these delightful appetizers into various occasions, ensuring a crowd-pleasing culinary experience for your guests. Enjoy!
VARIATIONS:
- Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Before wrapping the dates in bacon, stuff each date with a chunk of manchego, Gouda, or Parmesan cheese. This adds an extra burst of flavor.
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates: Substitute the bacon with prosciutto for a slightly different taste. Make sure to use soft, plump dates for this variation.
- Dates with Goat Cheese: Omit the bacon and instead stuff the dates with soft goat cheese. You can flavor the goat cheese with minced fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, chives, chervil, and/or parsley. Alternatively, sweeten the goat cheese with honey to create a delightful dessert option. Roast the dates in the oven until the cheese softens, allowing them to sit for a minute before serving.
- Almond-Stuffed Dates: This variation pairs well with any of the preceding options. Insert an almond into the cavity of each date before wrapping them in bacon.
Enjoy Suzanne Goin’s irresistible bacon-wrapped dates as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. The combination of sweet dates, savory bacon, and various flavorings will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.
