A Simple, Thoughtful Dinner for Your Valentine
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Thinking of cooking your own romantic Valentine’s Day dinner rather than venturing out to an expensive, crowded restaurant? If you’re lucky enough to have a significant other to pamper, there are easy ways to make this meal a nice event a little above the usual.
You have to admit, Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to pause, relax, and enjoy each other’s company. The Romans were the first to come up with the idea of a romantic celebration in February. Their Lupercalia festival celebrated the coming of spring by pairing off women with men by lottery. The more modern version probably came about in the 14th century during a time that celebrated courtly love. Mid-February being the mating season for birds, depictions of “lovebirds” began appearing on commercially printed cards in the 17th century. Then also arose the tradition of gifts of candy and flowers.
An affair to remember
If you feel like getting into the spirit, you don’t have to go the “surf and turf” route with steak and lobster. Rather, there are simpler, tastier, and even more elegant ways to make this a memorable, romantic dinner. Here are some ideas to help you.
Most important is to do something to make it special, even if you’re planning a simple meal. It might be an additional ingredient or garnish that makes it stand out. Maybe something that will evoke a memory of good times past. Keep in mind what your significant other would like or appreciate instead of going to a lot of trouble and expense. And you might want to think about something that you can do ahead, without last-minute prep, allowing you to spend the evening together.
Here are some ideas that don’t require extensive time to prepare. Even though steak is a traditional Valentine’s Day meal, that might not be the best route unless your S.O. is bonkers for beef. Rather, how about something lighter – maybe a garlicky (but not too garlicky) buttery seared scallops with beans? Want to ramp it up, but with comfort food? How about a creamy shrimp alfredo pasta or a Tuscan shrimp pasta?
Maybe your S.O. would appreciate something lighter. How about teriyaki salmon with a little rice? That’s something that not only tastes good but is also special. Or how about almond-crusted halibut crystal symphony?
If your S.O. appreciates Indian food, you can’t go wrong with Indian butter chicken, probably the most favored Indian dish. But since it’s also the season for Chinese New Year, how about combining celebrations with some addictive and easy Shanghai Fried Noodles? But if you decide to go the pasta route, how about trying this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta for something different?
A touch of class
Think about setting the mood. Pay attention to details that show that you spent time and mental effort on your presentation and setting. This is where candles, music, flowers, wine or champagne, perhaps, and other thoughtful elements come into play. Be sure to limit interruptions from electronic intruders.
For something sweet at the end of the meal, you don’t need to make an elaborate dessert. But how about stopping at a sweet shop for some special chocolates? Or serving dishes of sherbet? Or you could finish with a glass of liqueur or late-harvest wine.
It’s about paying attention to the little details and presenting a thoughtful surprise. It’s worth it, don’t you think? What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year?
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