From chocolates to conversation hearts, Valentine’s Day is all about spreading love–and there’s no better way to connect with loved ones than a home-cooked meal or thoughtfully-prepared dessert. These 10 recipes, ranging from savory mains to decadent chocolate cake, attest that the way to one’s heart is through their stomach.
10 Recipes to Make this Valentine’s Day
Rose Colored Glasses
When diving into a new relationship, everything feels a bit brighter and sweeter–and this cocktail chases that same feeling. With freshly brewed strawberry-rose syrup and dried rose petal garnish, this brandy-forward cocktail elicits delight and optimism with each sip.
Duck with Cheerwine and Cherry Gastrique
Looking to escape the Valentine’s Day crowds? Impress your partner with a home-cooked spread featuring this seared duck with cherry gastrique devised by Kevin Callaghan of Acme Food & Beverage Co. in Carrboro, North Carolina. Drenched in a thick Cheerwine and cherry sauce, this decadent duck is served best alongside a bitter vegetable like broccoli rabe or collard greens. Like any relationship, this recipe takes time and patience to get it right, but the final product is rewarding.
Cherry Cheesecake
Nothing says love like a delicious, sweet dessert, and this cheesecake is no exception. Its creamy vanilla center and buttery saltine cracker crust pair perfectly with a rich compote of fresh cherries, cinnamon, and red wine.
Orecchiette with Crab
Pasta is always a safe bet for romantic dinners. This orecchiette pasta with crab, fennel, and breadcrumbs marries acidic and rich notes with ingredients like fresh lemon juice, heavy cream, and pickled jalapeños. The recipe yields two servings, perfect for a date night in.
Roasted Salmon with Gochujang Mayo
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love: it’s about love in all facets of life. Kim Sunée and Seung Hee Lee from Everyday Korean adapted this roasted salmon recipe from her family, encouraging others to prepare it for their loved ones. Before broiling, the salmon is slathered with a gochujang mixture, which packs a spicy-sweet punch. Pair with a glass of sparkling rosé for a heartwarming meal with family and friends.
“Thank You Very Much” Truffles
This sweet and salty treat from Phillip Ashley Rix of Phillip Ashley Chocolates in Memphis, Tennessee, is guaranteed to please. The truffles’ chocolate ganache center consists of melted peanut butter, banana, and knobs of butter, and each truffle is topped with a crushed peanut coating. With the promise of crunch and delight in every bite, these truffles make for a hearty “thank you.”
Strawberry Arugula Salad with Hazelnuts and Feta
Start the evening light and sweet with this bright and flavorful salad. Freshly sliced strawberries, cocoa-dusted hazelnuts, and crumbly herbed feta rest atop a bed of arugula for a textured salad. Drizzle with balsamic for a final touch, and your guest is bound to ask for seconds.
Chocolate Stout Cake with Bailey’s Ice Cream
While chocolate isn’t anything new for Valentine’s Day, this chocolate stout cake is a unique take on a classic dessert. The chocolate remains the main character, but a splash of stout helps deepen the rich flavors. When serving, reheat a slice and top with a dollop of homemade Bailey’s ice cream.
Cauliflower Ragu
A vegetarian take on the classic Italian dish, this cauliflower ragu brings a bowl of warmth to the dinner table. Hand-crushed tomatoes, sauteéd cauliflowers, and plenty of seasoning make this savory sauce one you’ll put on repeat. Top with shaved parmesan and pair with candlelight and conversation.
Braised Lamb Shoulder Brisket
For those wanting a cozy night in, consider making this lamb brisket. After searing the seasoned lamb in a large Dutch oven, pour in a bottle of red wine and add the rest of the seasonings and vegetables. While the lamb braises in the oven for a few hours, crack open your own bottle and raise a glass to another year of love.
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Carson Peaden
Carson Peaden is a Digital Editorial intern with The Local Palate. From Charleston, she believes food is integral to Southern culture and enjoys telling stories that highlight local chefs and their craft. In college, Peaden acquired an interest in magazine writing and dreams of working for a local magazine. In her free time, she likes reading, writing poetry and short stories, and hiking.