Valentine’s Day inspiration for cooking or buying in the perfect romantic meal.
Whether you’re a fan of Valentine’s Day or would prefer to move swiftly onto flipping pancakes on Shove Tuesday instead, there’s no denying the power of food as the route to someone’s heart. You may be in the throes of a new relationship or maybe you’ve already shared several Valentines together, but whatever your relationship status, sharing some quality time over a meal can be a great way to show someone you care.
With so much time spent at home in recent months, it can be tempting to stick with the old routine. But just for one evening… turn Netflix off, be seated at the table for the perfect date night in the comfort of your own home.
We’ve some delicious recipes to share that don’t require a day in the kitchen to prepare, so you can impress, and enjoy some quality time together this Valentine’s Day.
Classic Sirloin Steak & Fondant Potatoes
Ingredients
Sirloin steaks, olive oil, butter, garlic cloves, a sprig of rosemary, Maris Piper potatoes, 200ml chicken or vegetable stock.
Season the steaks with salt and pepper, heat some oil in the pan and add some butter (careful not to burn) then once sizzling add the steaks, rosemary, and garlic. Remember to turn the steaks so they cook evenly. How long will depend on your preference for meat that is rare to well done.
For the fondant potatoes add your peeled potatoes to a pan of hot olive oil until golden brown and flip to fry the other side, then add butter to melt. Scatter the garlic and herbs around and pour on the stock, then cover and simmer for 25 minutes or until tender. Serve with the steaks and some steamed greens for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Room for Chocolate Dipped Strawberries?
Nothing says romance like a chocolate-dipped strawberry right?! The beauty of these is that you can make them ahead, or if you’re out of time you can always pass on allowing the chocolate to set in favour of chocolate fondue, to dip into until your heart's content.
If you want to compliment your meal with a drink for a special occasion, why not try a Valentine’s Day cocktail.
Still not convinced, or short on time? Why not swing by one of the tried and trusted Valentine’s meal deals from one of the supermarkets. They have some delicious and well-priced options that provide love without the labour!
Sainsbury’s is offering a starter, main, dessert, and drink for £15. Available in stores from 9th Feb – 1st March. There’s a great selection with several vegetarian options including Plant Pioneers No Chicken Buffalo Wings, Beyond Meat Plant-based Burger Patties and Plant Pioneers Tiramisu.
M&S is offering a dine-in deal from the start of February that includes a starter, main, side dish, dessert, box of chocolates, and a bottle of bubbly for £20. Again, options include meat, vegetarian, and vegan meals to cater to all. We’ve got our eye on the profiterole stack!
Waitrose is also offering a £20 meal deal with a fantastic choice of 11 mains to choose from, with any side of your choice, followed by a choice of 8 delicious desserts. The starters also include dishes from Heston Blumenthal’s range, plus your choice of a bottle of wine or fizz all for £20, available from 9th February.
All very tempting, whether you’re cooking or buying in, enjoy sharing the food of love this Valentine’s Day!Full recipes and sources are below:
https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/g2764/valentine-day-drinks/
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/simple-sirloin-steak
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/fondant-potatoes
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/chocolate-dipped-strawberries