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bacon-wrapped dates

Cafe Andalucia, Spanish Tapas, courtesy of Guillermo Vidal

SERVES 6 (30 PIECES)

30 (about 1/2 pound) pitted dates

30 whole almonds

30 bacon strips*

Mixed greens

Assorted olives for garnish

The crunchiness and contrast of sweet and salty make this Spanish tapas dish a real crowd pleaser. They will go quickly, so make sure there are many available. More good news is they can be made ahead and refrigerated. Pecans or walnuts can be substituted for the almonds.

1. Stuff each date with an almond.

2. Roll each date tightly in 1 strip bacon.

3. In batches, place in a large heavy skillet over high heat. Cook on one side 5 to 6 minutes, pressing down with a spatula, until bacon is browned and crisp.

4. Turn dates over, lower heat and cook 3 to 4 minutes, until bacon is crispy.

5 .Serve on a bed of mixed greens with olives.

*Turkey bacon can be substituted.