7 Romantic Meals to Cook for Date Night at Home (Plus What Wines to Pair With Them)
Valentine’s day is less than a week away, did you remember to make reservations at your favorite restaurant? After working in fine dining for a number of years, going to a restaurant on Valentine's Day could easily be one of my worst nightmares. So instead, my honey and I make a great meal at home and watch a good movie. Sooooo much better than fighting the crowded dining rooms and slammed kitchens of restaurants.
Here are 7 meals you can make right at home to celebrate date-night in. Pop open a bottle of the wine I suggest for each recipe, and you've got a perfect night!
Spicy, Creamy Chipotle Shrimp
This romantic dish comes together in just 15 minutes! Pair with a Spanish Albarino to really steam up your date night. Get the recipe and wine pairing
Chinese Take-Out
Orange chicken, broccoli beef, and cream cheese wontons made at home can be much more flavorful (and rewarding) than ordering takeout. But if you don’t feel like cooking on date-night-in, you can still have a romantic meal by popping open your favorite bottle of riesling or pilsner. Get the recipes and pairings.
Eggplant Parmesan
This is one of those dishes that looks like you put a lot of work into it but really... you didn't. Pair it with Chianti and crusty bread and you've got yourself a meal. Get the Recipe and Pairing
Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Tomato Sauce
What’s more romantic than recreating the scene from Lady and the Tramp? Here’s a super easy spaghetti dish that is great for both beginner and pro cooks. Most of the ingredients should already be in your pantry, too. Get the recipe and pairing
Beef Bourguignon
Okay, this is a date-night-in dish that will take some planning and active time in the kitchen. But I promise, the result is so rewarding! Pair this classic Burgundian meal with Red Burgundy (Pinot Noir) for a date-night-in you won’t forget. Get the recipe and wine pairing
Rib-Eye Steak Made in the Reverse-Sear Method
This is my go-to Valentine’s day meal because it is just as good, if not better, as going to our favorite steak house... sans crowded dining room. Treat yourself to a good cut of meat and open your favorite bottle of Napa Cabernet to guarantee a happy date. Get the recipe and wine pairing
White Chocolate Cheesecake with Raspberries and Framboise
Don’t forget about dessert! This white chocolate cheesecake is simple yet impressive, and can be made in advance so you don’t have to take a break from date-night. Pair it with a fruit lambic for a great end to your evening. Get the recipe and wine pairing