Ingredients:
- One slice 1/2 in thick slab bacon (or just buy thick sliced bacon)
- 12 pitted dates
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
- two stalks celery, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup celery leaves
- 2 tsp white wine vinegar
- one tablespoon olive oil
- salt to taste
Directions
- Set the oven to 350°. Have on hand a small skillet with a heat-proof handle and a small baking dish.
- If using a slab of bacon, slice it into 12 pieces. Transfer to the skillet and cook in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until it is crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Stuff each date with one teaspoon of blue cheese.
- Set the dates in the baking dish and bake for 4 minutes or until they are just warm.
- In a bowl, toss the celery, spices and leaves, vinegar, and olive oil. Sprinkle with salt.
- Cut the cooked bacon into pieces small enough to fit into a date.
- Top each date with a piece of bacon and garnish with celery salad.
