Beef Wrapped Medjool Dates

This savory and sweet appetizer brings together juicy Medjool dates wrapped in tender beef, optionally kissed with smoky bacon and fresh herbs. It is the kind of treat that effortlessly impresses guests while being wonderfully simple to prepare.

I first made these beef-wrapped dates for a holiday gathering, and they quickly became the star of the table. Their elegant taste and ease of preparation mean I often turn to this recipe when I want something special without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You Need

• 1 pound beef tenderloin or sirloin thinly sliced for wrapping: choose fresh cuts with a bright red color and minimal marbling for balanced tenderness
• 12 Medjool dates pitted: look for plump, soft dates with a glossy skin, avoiding any that are dry or hard
• 6 slices bacon optional and cut into thirds: smoked bacon adds a wonderful depth but fresh unsmoked can work well too
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme chopped finely: fresh herbs provide a bright aroma and subtle flavor contrast
• Salt and pepper to taste: to season and enhance all ingredients

Detailed Cooking Directions

Preheat The Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius to ensure it is hot enough for crisping the beef perfectly.

Prepare The Beef And Bacon:

Slice the beef into thin strips about half an inch wide, which will wrap snugly around the dates. If using, cut the bacon slices into thirds for manageable pieces that layer nicely.

Stuff The Dates:

Fill each pitted date with some chopped rosemary or thyme for a fragrant surprise inside every bite. If you like, wrap the date first with bacon to add smoky richness before encasing it in the beef strip.

Season And Secure:

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each wrapped date to boost flavor. For easier handling and to keep the layers intact during cooking, consider using toothpicks to secure the beef around each date.

Bake Until Crispy:

Place all the wrapped dates seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the beef is crispy and cooked through, adjusting time if your beef slices are thicker.

Serve Warm:

Remove from the oven and arrange on a platter. Drizzle any flavorful juices collected on the baking sheet over the top to add even more savoriness and moisture.

I love that these beef-wrapped dates can be customized easily. One time I substituted sage for rosemary and it introduced a lovely earthiness. Every version tells a little story of kitchen creativity sparked by simple ingredients.

Smart Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep them crisp when reheating, warm on a baking sheet in a preheated oven rather than the microwave.

Ingredient Variations

Swap the beef for thin slices of prosciutto or pancetta for a different texture and flavor profile. Try stuffing the dates with goat cheese or almonds to add a creamy or crunchy surprise inside.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve alongside a robust red wine such as a Malbec or a smoky mezcal cocktail to complement the sweet and savory flavors. A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.

Enjoy this delightful appetizer as a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of beef works best for wrapping dates?

Thinly sliced tenderloin or sirloin is ideal as it cooks quickly and wraps easily around the dates without toughness.

→ Can I skip the bacon and still have flavorful bites?

Yes, the beef combined with fragrant herbs like rosemary or thyme and the natural sweetness of dates creates rich flavor even without bacon.

→ How can I ensure the beef stays wrapped during cooking?

Using toothpicks to secure the beef around the dates helps keep everything intact and makes handling easier.

→ What herbs complement the beef and dates best?

Rosemary and thyme bring earthy, aromatic notes that balance the sweet dates and savory beef beautifully.

→ What’s the best oven temperature and time for baking these?

Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes yields a crispy exterior while fully cooking the beef.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble the wrapped dates in advance and refrigerate; bake them just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.