Chef's Tips

Bringing home the bacon.  I highly recommend using raw bacon as all the juices and flavors will seep into the dates and cheese during roasting. Pre-cooked bacon can't bring all that bacon mojo, since the fat will have been rendered (cooked) out already. Also, I buy bacon or pork loin only on occasion and look for brands raising pastured or heritage pork. Easier to find and usually a little less expensive is certified-organic pork, which is raised with higher standards than conventional (the pigs eat better and live better).

Experiment with different ingredients. Prunes instead of dates. Prosciutto instead of bacon. Whatever cheese you enjoy or happen to have on hand. All will be delicious. 

Add nuts for texture. Along with stuffing and wrapping prunes in place of dates, the British often stuff the prunes with almonds. Pecans, walnuts, and even Brazil nuts are others to try. 

On the Nutrition Information

The amounts below are based on the recipe as written, with about half of an ounce of blue cheese in each one. The totals will vary depending on how generously you stuff your dates with cheese, and how much bacon you wrap around each one.