Food Love For Valentine’s Day

Dave and I have never celebrated Valentine’s Day in the Hallmark card, heart-shaped box of chocolates, candlelight and rom-com romance kind of way. Most years, we kind of ignore it. Having admitted all of that, I should also confess that I am a giant sucker for romantic stories (Hello, Jane Eyre!). This year, we have a date to see the movie Winter’s Tale, which features many things I love, including Russell Crowe, William Hurt, accents, a burglar, an heiress, reincarnation, and this: “Set in a mythic New York City and spanning more than a century, ‘Winter’s Tale’ is a story of miracles, crossed destinies, and the age-old battle between good and evil.”

Crossed destinies!

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart or someone else who’s dear to you (like YOU), demonstrate pure love with delicious gifts from the kitchen. The menu below is infused with love and affection — no romance necessary — and includes recipes that don’t require a ton of hands-on time or last-minute fussing. It’s nourishing, comfort food to warm the heart, and has just enough elegance for a romantic candlelit dinner, if that’s your thing.

Tossed Salad w/ Creamy Italian Dressing (From Well Fed)

Thyme-Braised Short Ribs (from Well Fed 2)

Mustard-Garlic Brussels Sprouts (from Well Fed 2)

Mashed Cauliflower (from Well Fed)

Two-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse