Valentine's Day Recipe Ideas

Romantic and indulgent dishes to celebrate with on Valentine's Day

Photo credit: Brandon Wong Photography, taken on our wedding day

It's been well documented over the years that I love Valentine's Day. When my husband and I first started dating, we used to go all out: fancy prix fixe dinners, elaborate gifts, and even multiple day celebrations. But as the years have passed and other romantic dates (like our anniversary) have much more importance, we've downplayed V-Day more and more. In recent years, we've started cooking easy but fancy dinners together at home and they have far surpassed the fun of going out to a $95 per person meal that is standard at most L.A. restaurants. In truth, we'd rather spend our money on an extra bottle of our favorite bubbly and enjoy a cozy date night at home.

These recipes are some of my favorites for Valentine's Day, or any romantic occasion, because they scream "special occasion" but don't require much time in the kitchen. Turn on some music, pour a glass of something nice, and spend a few minutes in the kitchen together. Collaborating on a meal makes the food taste even better.


*See Valentine's Day meals from 2011, 2012, and 2013 here. Or check out my Pinterest board for more Valentine's Day menu inspiration.


Valentine's Day Recipe Ideas:
Appetizers

• Beet, Burrata, & Arugula Salad - Sweet beets and creamy cheese make a festive and colorful starting course or side dish.
• Broiled Oysters with Sriracha Butter - Is there anything sexier than oysters?

Entrees

• Pappardelle with Creamy Truffle Sauce - This is my go-to dish for every special occasion: wide noodles bathed in a luscious truffle cream sauce.
• Seared Scallops with Baked Saffron Risotto - Scallops are surprisingly quick and easy to cook and the "risotto" bakes in the oven while you enjoy a glass of wine.
• Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce - For meat lovers, this is the ultimate elegant steak dinner.

Desserts

• Flourless Chocolate Cake - This is the perfect rich piece of chocolatey goodness that everyone wants on Valentine's Day.
• Berry Pavlova - Sweet meringue topped with whipped cream and a slew of berries is a beautiful end to a meal.