Chorizo-Stuffed Dates With Piquillo Pepper Sauce

1. 1

   Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add garlic and shallots and saute until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add peppers and tomatoes and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the liquid in the sauce has mostly evaporated.

4. 4

   Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. 5

   Let sauce cool slightly, then transfer to a blender and process until smooth.

6. 6

   Thin with warm water to reach desired consistency if necessary.

7. 7

   You want a thick sauce but not so thick that it mounds on the plate.

8. 8

   Heat oven to 350 degrees.

9. 9

   Stuff dates with chorizo, using about 1/2 tablespoon of chorizo per date.

10. 10

    Cut bacon slices in half lengthwise and wrap a slice around each date.

11. 11

    Place stuffed dates on a small baking sheet and bake 15 minutes, or until chorizo is cooked through.

12. 12

    Turn broiler to high and broil for 2 to 4 minutes, or until bacon is dark brown and crisp.

13. 13

    Spread sauce on each plate and place 3 dates on top.

14. 14

    Serve warm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.