Stay In: A Date for Two

Going out to eat may be the thing to do on Valentine’s Day, but why not stay in? You won’t have to battle for reservations and you’ll save some money. When you prepare a special meal for the one you love, you are giving a delicious and memorable gift.

Take advantage of the fact that Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year. You’ll have the weekend before to straighten up the house and shop for food. If you have children and want your Valentine’s Day celebration to be just for adults, secure a sitter a few days ahead.

For a simple but elegant gift, look for bubble bath, bath salt, and lotion. Arrange them in a decorative basket and present them to your loved one to enjoy on Valentine’s Day and beyond. Express your feelings by writing a personal message or creating some poetry or artwork.

The trick to a special night in is to have it feel extraordinary. So get dressed up! The meal will feel more elegant, you’ll look polished, and you won’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home.

Set the Mood
Create a romantic atmosphere by setting the table with your finest dishes and some lit candles. If you decide to add flowers, keep them simple so they won’t be a distraction. Turn off the phone to avoid interruptions.

Dim the lights and play some soft background music. Choose songs that are meaningful to you and your loved one.

The Valentine’s Day menu featured here is light and simple. After all, you don’t want to fall asleep right after eating! No one wants to spend all of Valentine’s evening in the kitchen either, so prepare part of the meal ahead of time. The chocolate fondue sauce can be made in advance, as can the miso glaze for the salmon. When it’s time for dinner, all you have to do is bake the fish and cut fruit for dessert.

It’s easy to get caught up in the commercialization of Valentine’s Day. But when it comes right down to it, it’s about spending time with the one you love.

Suggested Menu:
Miso Glazed Salmon
Sesame Asparagus Salad
Dark Chocolate Fondue