So apparently Saturday was supposed to be the apocalypse. Well, I’m still here so either Heaven is exactly like earth, complete with rainstorms and cupcakes, or the world didn’t end.
But Saturday night, just in case, I made preparations for the end of the world the best way I know how: wrapping something in bacon.
Previously, I’ve had dates stuffed with goat cheese. And recently, Emilie had dates wrapped in bacon. Saturday, I was inspired to combine them all into one delicious appetizer. Because really, anything stuffed with goat cheese AND wrapped in bacon has to be good. And signify the end of days. Or any diet.
My friend Emilie and her new beau came over to hang out with me and Rahul and make these yummy appetizers. And then, in the event that the world didn’t end (which, clearly, it didn’t), we had plans to eat dinner at Buenos Aires Café Este (which was fabulous!). The night turned out to be great, despite the continuance of human existence.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese (serves 4-6)
16-20 medjool dates, pitted and sliced to open
2-3 ounces soft goat cheese
4-5 slices of bacon, cut into quarter strips
If the dates are not pre-pitted, slice them open to remove the pit. If they come without pits, make a small slice into one side of the date to create a pocket. Using a spoon, scoop a small amount of the soft goat cheese and put it in the pocket created in the date (should be about a teaspoon worth of cheese). Repeat until all of the dates are filled. Next, slice bacon strips into 4 pieces. (Tip: Put the bacon in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing so it is a bit easier & less slippery!). Wrap each date with a piece of the bacon and place on a cooking sheet. Once all dates are wrapped, bake at 400* for 10 minutes then set to broil for another 4-5 minutes until the tops are crispy but not over-done. Remove dates from the sheet and place on paper towels to absorb some of the grease. Allow to cool 5-10 minutes, then serve!
