The Flavors Of The Mediterranean Come Alive In This Simple Tapas Dish

Dates with Bacon

Serves 8 to 12

• 24 whole almonds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 24 pieces pitted dates
• 12 rashers of honey cured bacon, sliced lengthwise

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 

2. In a small bowl, toss together almonds, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt and pepper. Transfer almonds to a baking tray and roast for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.

3. Stuff each date with a roasted almond. Wrap stuffed date with bacon. Secure with a toothpick.  

4. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. You may also fry the dates in a little oil. Serve immediately.

This recipe first appeared in FOOD Magazine, April-May 2014 Issue

Styling by Jill F. Sandique

Photography by Paulo Valenzuela