As the day of love approaches, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen and plan a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner that will leave your sweetheart feeling loved and appreciated. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a culinary newbie, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouthwatering recipes for two.
From indulgent filet mignon dishes to decadent desserts, our collection of Valentine’s Day dinner ideas is designed to help you create a memorable evening that will be cherished long after the candles have been blown out. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember!
Herb-Crusted Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant and flavorful recipe that combines tender filet mignon with a rich red wine reduction. The herb crust adds a savory and aromatic touch, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the filet mignon steaks.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. While the steaks are cooking, reduce red wine on low heat until almost syrupy (about 15-20 minutes).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and brush the reduced red wine over the filet mignon steaks.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter and Lemon
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent and flavorful lobster tail recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and lemon juice.
4. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the lobster tails.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is opaque and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Scampi over Linguine
A classic Italian-American dish gets a rich and creamy twist with this recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Add reserved pasta water and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Stir in lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.
7. Return shrimp to skillet and toss to coat with creamy sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Wellington for Two
Elevate your dinner game with this tender Beef Wellington recipe, perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) filet mignon
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper.
3. In a small skillet, sauté the mushroom duxelles until fragrant. Let cool.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to a large rectangle.
5. Place the cooled mushroom mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Place the filet mignon on top of the mushroom mixture.
7. Brush the edges of the pastry with the softened butter.
8. Roll the pastry over the beef, starting from one long side. Pinch the seam closed.
9. Place the Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Note: Mushroom duxelles can be store-bought or homemade (see recipe).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Risotto
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent scallops with creamy risotto and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Pan-sear scallops in a separate skillet with a small amount of olive oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve scallops on top of risotto, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes for the risotto and 4-6 minutes for pan-searing the scallops.
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Mozzarella
This recipe yields a deliciously moist chicken breast stuffed with flavorful spinach and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Place cheese on top of the spinach and fold the chicken over to enclose the filling.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Mushroom Pasta for Two
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the luxurious taste of truffles, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pasta dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle, fettuccine)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add truffle oil and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with mushroom mixture and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing twist on a classic lamb dish. Juicy lamb chops paired with a zesty mint pesto make for a flavorful and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1 1/2 pounds)
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth pesto forms.
3. Brush both sides of lamb chops with the mint pesto.
4. Grill lamb chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Let lamb chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant and flavorful dish that combines the richness of duck breast with the sweetness of cherry sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts, skin removed
– 1 cup cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and sear duck breasts for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cherries, port wine, and brown sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve seared duck breast with cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender steak bites with a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter.
3. Toss steak cubes with salt, pepper, and garlic butter mixture.
4. Cook steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side or until desired level of doneness.
5. Transfer steak to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. While steak is cooking, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the flavors of fresh dill, lemon butter, and a hint of garlic to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped dill, lemon juice, and garlic until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy’s Caprese salad with the earthy goodness of portobello mushrooms. The result is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
6. If using balsamic glaze, drizzle it over the mushrooms during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Capers and White Wine
This Italian-inspired dish is a staple of fine dining, yet easy to make at home. Thinly pounded chicken breasts are dredged in flour, sautéed in butter, and finished with a tangy sauce made with white wine, capers, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pound chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add white wine, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer 2-3 minutes or until sauce has slightly thickened.
6. Serve chicken breasts with sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze Recipe
This recipe combines the tenderloin of a pork roast with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove tenderloin from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Place pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Risotto with Asparagus and Peas
This creamy risotto recipe combines the sweetness of asparagus and peas with the comfort of a rich vegetable broth, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pasta Carbonara for Two
This classic Italian dish is a rich and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a decadent pasta dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 oz guanciale or pancetta, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the guanciale or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until coated.
6. Add the cooked guanciale or pancetta to the pasta and toss until combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cakes for Dessert
Experience the thrill of gooey chocolate centers in these indulgent treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted chocolate, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins.
6. Place ramekins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Tart with Goat Cheese
Roasted Vegetable Tart with Goat Cheese: A flavorful and visually appealing tart that combines the sweetness of roasted vegetables with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Arrange roasted vegetables on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Dollop goat cheese crumbles over vegetables, then drizzle with honey.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
7. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cut a few slits in the top.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Creamy Polenta
Savor tender short ribs smothered in a rich sauce and served alongside creamy polenta, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups polenta cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown in olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then remove from pot.
3. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil, scraping up browned bits from bottom of pot.
5. Return short ribs to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in butter, heavy cream, and salt.
7. Serve short ribs with creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Vanilla Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries
A creamy and refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Vanilla Panna Cotta is paired with sweet and tangy fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, top with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Summary
Get ready for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic filet mignon to decadent chocolate lava cakes, and from seafood to meat and vegetarian options, there’s something for every taste. Impress your loved one with Herb-Crusted Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction or Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter and Lemon. For a cozy night in, try Creamy Shrimp Scampi over Linguine or Pan-Seared Scallops with Risotto. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – maybe Chocolate Lava Cakes or Vanilla Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries? Whatever your heart desires, these recipes are sure to make the evening special.
