As I was
exiting the grocery store this evening, the gentleman who was
assisting me with carrying out my purchases asked if I had plans
for Valentine's Day. I told him I would definitely be staying home,
because I thought the worst day of the year to try to go out to
dinner is Valentine's Day. Restaurants are crowded, the prices are
high, and the menus are often less than inspired. I much prefer a
quiet dinner at home, where the food will be much better.
Since I do like to make it a special meal, I turn to the EYB
Library for inspiration (truth be told I use it every day, but it's
especially handy on occasions like this.) Valentine's Day is less
than a week away, so now is the perfect time to start planning.
It's easy because the Library has an entire category dedicated to
Valentine's Day and romantic meals.
Instead of buying roses, you can start your passionate
evening with a Coming Up Roses cocktail. After that, it's
time for tomato roses on a bed of cannellini bean
puree or Persian stuffed dumpling squash with rose
petals. Speaking of dumplings, Jamie Oliver's love
dumplings recipe certainly sounds cozy.
Heart shapes are both whimsical and easy, like these
adorable Dried
cranberry shortbread hearts (pictured above) and this
stunning Deep chocolate cake with a raspberry
mousse heart.
Or, you could go in a different direction with the heart theme and
try Roasted fennel and artichoke
hearts, Heart-shaped meatloaf, Heart shaped toad in the hole for
two, or even Grilled heart.
Whether your tastes run to traditional steak and chocolate
romantic meals or something lighter and less formal, we're sure
that with over 1,600 different recipes, you are sure to find the
perfect dish to make for your valentine.