The most common complaint I’ve heard from those who don’t cook is that they don’t have the energy to look for recipes. That’s why I’ve done the work for you by finding six easy recipes around the web that use seasonal ingredients and are endlessly adaptable.
Pomegranate Vanilla Sangria from How Sweet Eats
Pomegranate. Vanilla. Sangria. Don’t those three words just scream “seduction in a glass”? From the blood-red color to the sophisticated flavor notes of vanilla bean, cinnamon, and citrus, I can think of no more appropriate Valentine’s Day libation. Under-21s can substitute club soda for the wine and omit the brandy for a sparkling virgin cocktail.
Fondant roses from Bakerella
Okay, this is really more of a method than a recipe, but you’d be surprised by how easy these adorable fondant roses are. I’m picturing white rose coconut cupcakes, scarlet roses on chocolate espresso cake, yellow roses on a hummingbird cake, violet roses atop honey lavender cupcakes… the possibilities are endless. Unfortunately, fondant isn’t exactly delicious–for a tastier topper, make your roses out of marzipan.
Beet Risotto with Lemon Mascarpone from Huffpost Taste
Not only is risotto classic romantic meal fodder, grated beets give this one a deep fuchsia color that’s just perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Red Wine Chocolate Cake from Smitten Kitchen
Were there ever two more classic ingredients for Valentine’s Day than chocolate and red wine? This cake combines them seamlessly into a dense, intensely flavored cake.
Croque Monsieur from Ina Garten
Something about French food strikes me as effortlessly romantic, and Croque Monsieur is the perfect example. What could be better than a luscious grilled cheese sandwich, topped with bubbly gruyere? Oh yeah, the addition of an over-easy egg for a Croque Madame. That could be better.
T-Bone Steaks with Hotel Butter from The Pioneer Woman
My boyfriend likes, or at least does a gallant job of pretending to like, the vegetable-heavy, often meatless offerings coming out of my kitchen. So the best way I can think of to show my appreciation is with a large quantity of unadulterated red meat once a year. I suggest you do the same.
