Easy Valentine's Day Meals

With so many people going on dates or spending the evening with friends, Valentine's Day is one of the most dining out-friendly holidays of the year. Restaurants every where are filling up with reservations, with some requiring call aheads months in advance. But what if you and your sweetie prefer staying in?

There are plenty of delicious, holiday-appropriate meals to make at home when eating out just isn't an option. Plus, with the power given in your own kitchen, you have the ability to tailor any recipes to your sweetheart's every want and need.

Dress up the table with a red table cloth and some flowers and you have a Valentine's Day dinner that is not only delectable, but festive and incredibly personal. No cupid arrows needed.

We've put together our top five recommendations for easy to make yet incredibly delicious holiday meals for Love Day, perfect for you and your Valentine.

Shrimp and Pasta Puttanesca

This spicy pasta dish is sure to keep things hot throughout the evening without taking too much time or effort. Bonus: it's kid friendly! Serve up shrimp per plate for picky eaters.

Get the recipe here

Lamb Chops with Pomegranate Red Wine Sauce

These pan-seared chops are dressed up for the holiday with a splash of red wine and some pomegranate juice. Easy to make, delicious and festive to boot.

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Red Wine Spaghetti with Broccoli

Similar to the recipe in our 5 Best Pasta Dishes article, this dish incorporates spaghetti that has actually absorbed the wine right in. With a deep red hue, the tender noodles are perfect for any Valentine's Day table.

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Roasted Beet and Shallot Salad over Wilted Beat Greens and Arugula

These sweet red beets are roasted until tender and served up with peppery arugula, some crunchy walnuts, and just a bit of grated orange rind. Perfect as a side or appetizer salad to go with your meal.

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Lobster Macaroni and Cheese

For something decadent yet comforting this Valentine's Day, try making a Lobster Mac & Cheese. Though the recipe might seem a bit difficult, you can shorten the cook and prepping time by buying fresh lobster meat rather than live lobsters.

Get the recipe here