Bacon-Wrapped Dates

This appetizer, commonly seen in tapas restaurants, is quick and easy to prepare. The dates can be stuffed with a variety of soft cheeses including blue and ricotta. Laiola in San Francisco serves them stuffed with house-made chorizo.

10 Medjool dates, pitted

5 slices applewood smoked bacon, halved crosswise

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Wrap each date with a slice of bacon and secure ends with a toothpick.

Place on a baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake in oven until bacon is brown and crisp  on one side, about 10 minutes. Flip dates over and bake for an additional 8 minutes or until bacon is brown and crisp.

Remove from oven and serve with or without the toothpicks.

Serves 2.