Feta-Stuffed Dates Wrapped in Organic, Nitrite-Free Bacon

Looking for the perfect appetiser that combines indulgence, nutrition, and a touch of sophistication? These feta-stuffed dates wrapped in organic, nitrite-free bacon are a crowd-pleasing choice. Sweet, savoury, creamy, and crispy all at once, they’re a treat for the taste buds while offering nutritional benefits. Here’s why you’ll love them and why making thoughtful ingredient choices matters.

Bacon has long been a cherished ingredient in the culinary world, but not all bacon is created equal. By opting for organic, nitrite-free bacon, you make a choice that’s better for both your health and the environment.

• Nitrates: Many conventional bacons are cured with nitrites or nitrates, which act as preservatives and give bacon its characteristic pink hue. However, these additives have been linked to potential health risks, including the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic compounds that may develop during high-heat cooking. Nitrite-free bacon eliminates this concern, allowing you to enjoy bacon without added chemicals.

• Organic Certification: Organic bacon comes from pigs raised without antibiotics, hormones, or genetically modified feed. It also ensures higher welfare standards, meaning better quality and taste for you, and a kinder system for animals.

• Feta Cheese: Feta is a tangy, creamy cheese that’s surprisingly high in protein and calcium. This makes it an excellent choice for a snack that’s both indulgent and nutritious. It’s also lower in fat than many other cheeses, while its bold flavour means a little goes a long way.
  
  A note from the Editor - I'm dairy free to I opt for either Nush Almond Cream Cheese with Chive or Kinda Co Greek Style
  
  

• Dates: Naturally sweet and packed with nutrients, dates are a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without refined sugars. They’re rich in fibre, which supports digestion, and contain essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. While they’re not a protein powerhouse, dates do contribute small amounts of protein alongside their natural sweetness, making them a balanced energy source.

Ingredients (Serves 12)

• 12 Medjool dates

• 100g feta cheese, crumbled

• 6 slices of organic, nitrite-free bacon (cut in half)

• Toothpicks (optional)

• Sprinkle of Baja Gold Salt 
  
  

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dates: Using a small knife, carefully slice each date lengthwise to remove the pit. Be gentle to avoid cutting all the way through.

2. Stuff with Feta: Take a small amount of crumbled feta and stuff it into the hollow of each date. Press gently to secure the filling.

3. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap half a slice of bacon around each stuffed date. If needed, secure with a toothpick.

4. Cook to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 180°C fan. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes (until your bacon is crispy and golden) turning halfway.

5. Serve Warm: Once out the oven, sprinkle with Baja Gold Salt and allow the dates to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but are equally delicious at room temperature.

This recipe demonstrates how simple, high-quality ingredients can elevate a dish. By choosing organic, nitrite-free bacon, you’re making a health-conscious decision without sacrificing flavour. The feta adds creaminess and protein, while the dates bring natural sweetness and a touch of fibre, creating a balanced bite that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in moments. They’re proof that mindful eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste!