These yummy little bites are not your normal appetizer. Make sure to use large dates, which are much easier to handle and fill than small ones, and center cut bacon—thick cut bacon will take too long to cook. If a date splits while you're filling it, just press it back together. These are best warm, right off the grill, but are still good at room temperature. 

Gallery

Credit: Antonis Achilleos, Food Styling: Margaret Dickey, Prop Styling: Missie Crawford

Recipe Summary

active:
20 mins
total:
30 mins
Yield:
Serves 4 (serving size: 4 dates)
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Ingredients

Ingredient Checklist

Directions

Instructions Checklist
  • Using the end of a wooden spoon, gently enlarge the opening on each date to make it easier to fill. Carefully fill each date with about 1/2 teaspoon cheese.

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  • Cut each slice of bacon crosswise into 3 pieces. (Reserve remaining bacon pieces for another use.) Wrap each date with 1 piece of bacon, making sure the bacon wraps completely around date.

  • Preheat grill to medium (350°F to 400°F). Place dates on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill, uncovered, turning occasionally, until bacon is crisp and cheese is warmed, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer grilled dates to a platter. Sprinkle with pistachios.

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