(Pincho Dátiles con Bacón)
This is a pintxos recipe that is perfect for a nice summer gathering. Pintxos, also known as pinchos, are typically slices of crusty toasted baguette topped with something savory, they can also be small plates, skewers, and sweet/salty morsels. Pintxos are served throughout the Basque Country of Northern Spain and are known as Tapas in other regions of Spain. This pintxo recipe of bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese is simple, quick, and incredibly delicious.
Bacon wrapped dates can be baked in the oven or cooked on a hot grill. They will definitely impress and have everyone of your guests wanting more. They are the perfect party food. Enjoy this tasty snack at your next gathering!! I sometimes make them just for myself as I often have the craving! Cheers!!
Ingredients:
6 strips of thinly sliced bacon cut in half. You can substitute with prosciutto or serrano ham.
12 large dates
3 ounces of good goat cheese
Toothpicks (wooden)
12 Marcona almonds (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees or heat the grill to very hot.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice the dates lengthways from the edge to the pit. Carefully remove the pit and replace with a small amount of goat cheese (and an almond if using). Press the edges of the date together and seal.
3. Wrap each date with one piece of bacon. With a toothpick, pierce the bacon, dates, and cheese all together so the cheese is sealed inside.
4. Arrange the dates on a baking pan. Leave space between each date. Bake for around 15 minutes. Turn them halfway through. Bake until the bacon is brown and crispy.
*NOTE: You will find many variations of this Pintxo recipe. Be creative and design your own. I’m sure you can find a great balsamic sauce that will pair well with these delectable morsels. I have a hard time eating just one – hahaha – There are many forms of Pintxo recipes where some are super simple and some are artistic creations. Go online and look for a number of recipes. Pintxos are a great reason to have people over and enjoy a light hearted afternoon or evening!!
Cheers, Drew Frederic