- 18 (1- by 1/4-inch) sticks Parmigiano-Reggiano (from a 1/2-lb piece)
- 18 pitted dates (preferably Medjool)
- 6 bacon slices, cut crosswise into thirds
- Special equipment: 18 wooden picks
- Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 450°F.
- Stuff 1 piece of cheese into each date, then wrap 1 piece of bacon around each date, securing it with a pick. Arrange dates 1 inch apart in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake 5 minutes, then turn dates over with tongs and bake until bacon is crisp, 5 to 6 minutes more. Drain on a paper bag or parchment. Serve immediately.