Recipe: Broiled Bacon Bundled Walnut Stuffed Dates

There's something about stuffed dates that just says "fancy." They're delicious stuffed with everything from nuts to goat cheese, and these are no exception! Your guests will be wowed by this simple but exquisite recipe, and you will enjoy the simplicity of this perfect holiday party appetizer - just 3 relatively inexpensive ingredients. (Budget shopping tip: Buy the dates and walnuts in bulk to save a bit of dough. Freeze the rest for future use - both can be used in a variety of tasty baked goods such as muffins, cookies, and more.)

Broiled Bacon Bundled Walnut Stuffed Dates
(Makes 12 appetizers.)

Ingredients:

12 large dates
12 walnut halves
4 slices lean bacon, cut into thirds (so you have 12 pieces)

Directions:

• Get out a broiler pan and set the oven rack about 6 inches below broiler element. Turn broiler on to preheat.
• With a small paring knife, make a little slice into each date (remove the pit) and put a walnut half in, squeezing the date around the walnut.
• Wrap a piece of bacon around the date and stick a toothpick through.
• Repeat with each date until all are used up.
• Arrange the bundles on the broiler pan and place under preheated broiler. Leave oven door slightly ajar, and broil for about 9 or 10 minutes, turning several times, until bacon is crispy.
• Remove to a paper towel covered plate and let sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
• Remove toothpicks if desired, and serve warm.