Bacon-wrapped dates
AI-generated illustration
Bacon-wrapped dates are a popular appetizer made by wrapping pitted dates in strips of bacon and baking or grilling them until the bacon is crispy. The dish typically features sweet Medjool or Deglet Noor dates, smoky bacon, and sometimes a toothpick to hold it together, often with optional additions like a stuffed almond or a drizzle of glaze. This savory-sweet bite is widely enjoyed in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and American cuisine, especially at parties and tapas bars.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in fat and carbohydrates, providing a quick energy boost from the natural sugars in dates and the fat from bacon. Key nutrients include fiber, potassium, and iron from the dates, along with protein and B vitamins from the bacon, with a rough calorie count of about 100-150 calories per piece.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the combination of sweet and savory reflects a long tradition in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, where dates are a staple. Nutritionally, it's a unique contrast: the dates offer antioxidants and fiber, while the bacon adds richness, making it a flavorful but indulgent treat.