Chorizo Stuffed, Bacon Wrapped, Pitted Dates

My sister made these over the holidays.  They are blood-thickening.  But oh, they're worth it.  This is why you serve them as appetizers to a large group, so you won't be tempted to polish them all off on your own.  You see, I'm just looking out for your well-being.  But New Year's Resolutions aside, these are easy, and unexpected, little nibbles that will delight everyone they come in contact with.  A perfect combination of salty, sweet and savory.  

Much like my little sister, only I'd have to add "fiery" to that list of descriptors if we're going to talk about her.  Of course, she would insist I emphasize the "sweet" even if her most endearing quality is the "salty."  Now, you don't have to choose.  Like the world's best friend, you can roll it up and have it all.

Note: quantities are up to you and depend on the number of people you plan on serving

Pitted dates

Several slices of bacon (uncooked)

Chorizo sausage in casing (cooked or uncooked), spicy chorizo is wonderful, but it's a matter of personal preferance.

Slice one side of the dates to open them up, but don't cut them clear in half, you want one side to remain intact. Remove the sausage from the casing and stuff a bit of the chorizo into each date. Wrap the date around the sausage, then wrap the date with some of the bacon. Secure each date with a toothpick.

Heat a skillet over medium to medium-high heat, you don't really need to add oil as the bacon should do the job for you. Pan fry the dates on each side until the bacon turns dark brown, even a little blackened and the sausage is cooked through, 7-9 minutes total. Drain the dates on paper towles before plating. Serve to ooohs and aaaahs.