Asiago-Stuffed Dates with Bacon and Smoked Paprika

By marilou-2

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates
• 121 1/2 x1/4x1/4-inch pieces Asiago, Manchego, or pecorino cheese
• 4 slices applewood-smoked bacon, each cut crosswise into 3 pieces
• Smoked paprika

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425°F. Using small knife, make small cut in side of each date; remove pit. Insert 1 piece of cheese into each date. Brush bacon slices generously on 1 side with smoked paprika. Wrap each date with 1 piece of bacon, with paprika side against date. Secure bacon with toothpick. Arrange dates on rimmed baking sheet. Roast until bacon is browned on bottom, about 6 minutes. Turn dates; roast until bacon is cooked, about 6 minutes longer. Transfer to plate; cool slightly. Remove toothpicks.