Recipe:
Blue Cheese and Pecan Stuffed Dates
Makes 2 dozen
To ease the party rush, make the filling for these dates a few days in advance, keeping in mind that the flavor will get stronger over time. For a vegetarian version omit the bacon and sauté the onions in olive oil instead.
Ingredients
4 slices 365 Everyday Value Bacon
1/2 small red onion, chopped
3 tablespoons orange juice
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
2-1/2 ounces 365 Everyday Value Neufchâtel Cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans, divided
24 pitted dates
Method
Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to drain on paper towels, reserving 1/2 teaspoon bacon grease in skillet. Add onion and cook over medium heat until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add orange juice and cook, scraping up any browned bits, until liquid is evaporated, 1 to 2 minutes more. Transfer onion to a medium bowl and let cool. Crumble bacon into the onions. Add cheeses and half of the pecans. Stir well to combine. Stuff each date with a heaping teaspoon of the mixture and top with remaining pecans.
Nutrition
Per serving (1 each/23g-wt.): 80 calories (45 from fat), 5g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 5mg cholesterol, 80mg sodium, 7g total carbohydrate (1g dietary fiber, 6g sugar), 2g protein
Lori Cain is a residential Realtor with Chinowth & Cohen Realtors serving the greater Tulsa Oklahoma area, including midtown Tulsa, Owasso, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Sand Springs and Jenks. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.
