Have you heard? Valentine’s Day is coming up. This year it lands on a Tuesday. Sounds like a “Toy Story” pre-printed kid Valentine card taped to a box of Sweethearts candy is in the works. Although I love
“Toy Story” and I read every one of those candy hearts I eat – – even repeats.
A mid-week day of love doesn’t mean insanity will ensue. But we all know that a school/work night has its limits. A romantic dinner out might not be an option but you can still set the mood.
Easy main course
Chateaubriand is better enjoyed in a restaurant setting so make dinner uncomplicated. Opt for burgers instead. Many grocery stores sell pre-prepared patties. Just grill and serve. Pasta is always a cinch. Make your own sauce using crushed garlic, canned diced tomatoes, basil and oregano. Some greens on the side and voila! You have made a romantic dinner for two, or three or more.
Homemade dessert
What makes a Valentine dinner memorable isn’t what’s on the dinner plate; it’s the extras! Like homemade chocolate covered strawberries. I make them often, Valentine’s or not, it’s easy. Melt some chocolate chips, the cookie making kind, in the microwave for about 45 seconds. Stir the chocolate to ensure even melting and microwave another 15 seconds. Stir again and dip each strawberry individually in the chocolate. Lay the covered berries on a cookie sheet that is covered with wax paper and refrigerate until chocolate sets.
Wine choices
Another important extra is the wine.
For a lovely white wine, chill a bottle of Echelon 2010 California Chardonnay. This Chardonnay has no oak but does have a creamy texture that makes it smooth and refreshing at the same time. The sumptuous flavors of pineapple and peach make this wine perfect for burgers smothered in sautéed onions and mushrooms and topped with Swiss cheese. Yummy!
You’ll be all hands over the 14 Hands 2009 Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon. Its multifaceted aromas and flavors come from 12 months of aging in a combination of American and French oak barrel. Plums, cherries and spice will pique your senses especially if you enjoy it with a bountiful plate of pasta and red sauce. The herbs in the sauce and the flavors in the wine just want to be Valentines.
What type of Valentine posting would this be without the mention of a sparkling wine? Ready for those strawberries dipped in chocolate? Then you’re ready for the Riondo Punto Rosso 2010 Prosecco Brut from northeast Italy. The bubbles not only tickle the tongue but they’ll tickle your fancy with a light cantaloupe flavor and an “ahh” finish. It’s Valentine’s! The day (or night) should be filled with ecstasy and this sparkler is the place to start.