Not long after the ball drops and we proclaim our resolutions for the New Year, we’re facing down another holiday: Valentine’s Day. A day for lovers, reservations can be difficult to obtain at your favorite places. Not to mention expensive too!
And even when you get those coveted reservations, it’s crowded everywhere. That’s hardly romantic, don’t you think? That’s why we’ve got some romantic dinner suggestions to make at home, either together or to surprise the one you love. With just the two of you by candlelight, these dinner ideas are sure to spark more than your appetite.
Starters
Your romantic dinner can begin with a nice salad, though don’t make it the same kind of salad you’d make on any night. It should have some special element to it. Something rich like crisp-fried pancetta is a lovely toppings, especially with a homemade red wine vinaigrette. You can also make a homemade Caesar, opting to use real anchovies for pure indulgence.
Want to do something even more divine? Try cheese fondue. It’s easier to make than you think and is a fun, elegant, and intimate way to start off your Valentine’s Day dinner without waiting for hours to be seated at an overpriced fondue restaurant.
Mains
The main entrée can be something simple yet spectacular. A beautiful shrimp scampi is a fine choice that takes no time at all. The fresher the shrimp, the better the dish. But if you’re not sold on seafood, a whole roasted chicken is always a sweet way to break bread. The best way to get a juicy flavor is to cook it all day in your slow cooker. Then, carefully remove it and broil in the oven to get the skin brown and crispy. No matter how you season it, it will turn out perfectly.
Sides
For either the shrimp scampi or whole roasted chicken, one of the most romantic vegetables you can pair those with is asparagus. It’s listed as an aphrodisiac, plus there are countless ways to cook it that will turn up your taste buds.
Desserts
Enjoy a seductive tray of fresh-dipped chocolate strawberries. You can even make a chocolate strawberry dipping bar with various little bowls of crushed nuts, sprinkles, and candies to try. Don’t forget the champagne! It goes beautifully with strawberries, whether they’re dipped in chocolate or not.
Prefer something a little more indulgent? Chocolate mousse and chocolate fondue are a bit richer. But if you’d prefer not to bake, picking up something ready-made is just fine too. While it’s best you think of how it complements your meal, you should pick something that you and your love both enjoy.
If you’re trying to eat more healthfully, consider buying only a small portion of dessert, perhaps one large and decadent cupcake to share so you get to indulge with less guilt and no leftovers to binge on.
Happy Valentine’s Day!