While I joke about this being a very Mediterranean dish, it is not uncommon to see the same flavor palate in many Latin and Caribbean cuisines. This is a sweet and savory appetizer that is sure to be a hit. The hint of maple in the bacon pairs nicely with the sweetness of the date while the tang of the goat cheese and warmth of the spices provide a nice contrast. Like many of my recipes this is also a quick fix with a limited number of ingredients. Ingredients 12 pitted date

I know everyone comes up with the idea of dieting post holidays, but I have always believed a little indulgence is necessary to recover fro the stresses of the holidays. This particular bite-sized treat started as an experiment for a Christmas party. I wanted to create something sweet, creamy and a little unusual. My niece, Rachel Hooper, who happens to develop flavor profiles for an internationally known company, suggested that I add a touch of cayenne to the dish since