Some go all-out, some choose to not celebrate at all, but there's one thing we can all agree on: any day with an excuse to eat is a good day! Tres is usually traveling on Valentine's Day, so we have never made much of a to-do about the holiday. But y'all know me, I cannot NOT acknowledge any excuse for a celebration, so there's typically wine and good food thrown somewhere in the mix when he gets home. Last year, we actually had a friends Valentine's Day where I created a 3 course menu and we dined on fluffy pillows at the coffee table... It was lovely! And to be honest, even between his travels, Tres has done some pretty special things for me on V-Day. But every couple celebrates different.
That's why I've created 5 fun menus for ANY type of couple (or group of friends). Pick the menu that suits you and your Valentine or mix and match - whatever you do, enjoy this day together celebrating food, wine, and love!
Sappy - Romantic
Lovey-Dovey couples need a meal that's sweet, shareable, and irresistible. The fresh, savory salad is the perfect starter. The spaghetti dish was created as a recipe for one so you can double it or make one serving and share it "Lady and the Tramp" style. And no romantic meal is complete without something extra sweet, this cherry almond hot chocolate is life.
1st Course: Citrus Panzanella
3rd Course: Cherry Almond White Hot Chocolate
Fun - Adventurous
Fun couples enjoy adventurous restaurants, food, and ingredients. This couple probably travels a lot and will try even the oddest described dish on a menu. I would put me and and Tres in this category. While these dishes aren't terribly strange, lots of unique and fun ingredients are used. The combo of truffle and duck fat make this starter to-die-for. The steak dish was inspired by a trip to Rio de Janeiro. And if you have never cooked with rose water, start with these cookies!
1st Course: Truffle Duck Fat Fries
3rd Course: Rose Shortbread Cookies
Netflix - Chill
I think most of us can relate to this couple, but maybe you're the couple who wants to keep it casual even on Valentine's Day. If so, this TV spread is for you. Drummies with White BBQ Sauce is the perfect starter - even better, you won't have to move from the couch to eat it. Pizza Trio is casual but special because the ingredients on each pizza are remarkable - choose one or make all three because leftovers never hurt. And because ice cream is the best for lounging, this float is just what you need to finish this relaxed meal.
Course 1: Drummies with White BBQ Sauce
Course 2: Pizza Trio
Course 3: Boozy Lavender Purple Cows
Fancy - Schmancy
I think even if you don't fall into this category, on Valentine's Day you may make an exception. This menu is inspired by a few extravagant restaurants where I've had the pleasure of dining. This pumpkin soup is decadent, sweet n smoky, and perfect to start a meal. No need to explain the filet - this cut of meat is fancy, fabulous, and this particular recipe may have you loving your meat more than your date (but don't tell them I said that). This dessert may be simple to make but it's a true luxury to eat.
Course 1: Pumpkin Beer Soup with Bacon and Dates
Course 2: Coffee Rubbed Filet Mignon
Course 3: Easy (but elegant) Mini Blueberry Galettes
Healthy - Fit
My biggest rule is, if there's a holiday or special occasion, it's ok to break the diet. However, I realize not all couples feel that way. This menu will keep you and your sweet healthy and on track with a delicious salad, the most perfect fish dish you'll ever eat, and a light and fruity dessert!
Course 1: Triple Tomato and Olive Salad
Course 3: Vanilla Berry Shortcake
Galentines
If you'd rather spend this love-filled holiday with your best girls, no one can blame you! This menu is fun, casual yet elegant, and feeds a crowd. The tuna skewers are a great mingling starter - serve with a cocktail and chat away while the truffle lasagna is in the oven. The cake can be made ahead of time for a fun, worry-free night!
Course 1: Tuna Skewers with Mojito Sauce
Course 2: Loaded Mushroom Truffle Lasagna
Course 3: Lou Lou's Bourbon Pound Cake