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Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in delicious food that brings joy, warmth, and romance.
When it comes to creating a memorable meal for your loved one, pasta is an ideal choice.
It’s comforting, versatile, and can be dressed up in endless ways to match the occasion. Whether you’re looking for a rich, creamy dish, something fresh and light, or a hearty pasta bake to share, the options are limitless.
In this blog article, we’ve rounded up over 50 Valentine’s Day pasta recipes to help you create the perfect dinner for two (or a crowd!).
From savory seafood pastas to indulgent cheesy classics, you’re sure to find a recipe that will set the mood for a delicious and romantic evening.
50+ Mouthwatering Valentine’s Day Pasta Recipes to Celebrate This
Pasta is a timeless and versatile dish, making it an ideal choice for your Valentine’s Day meal.
Whether you’re planning a simple dinner at home or a more elaborate celebration, these 50+ Valentine’s Day pasta recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
With the variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients available, you’ll be able to create the perfect meal to celebrate love.
So, get your apron on, choose your favorite recipe, and get ready to enjoy a heartwarming, flavorful dinner that will make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable!
Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Tomato Cream Sauce
This romantic heart-shaped ravioli is a perfect dish for a Valentine’s Day celebration. The pasta is filled with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese filling and then paired with a velvety tomato cream sauce. The combination of delicate, homemade ravioli and the tangy yet smooth sauce creates a memorable dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
- For the Ravioli:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ravioli Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, and basil. Set aside.
- Shape the Ravioli:
- Roll out the dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the ravioli shapes. Place a teaspoon of the ricotta mixture in the center of each heart and top with another heart-shaped piece of dough. Press the edges to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets.
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the ravioli into the water and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve:
- Gently toss the ravioli in the tomato cream sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
This heart-shaped ravioli with tomato cream sauce is a delicious way to celebrate love through food. The ravioli’s delicate texture paired with the rich tomato sauce offers a unique and indulgent experience. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner for two or hosting a romantic evening, this dish will surely impress and make your Valentine’s Day memorable.
Lobster and Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Indulge in the luxury of lobster and garlic butter spaghetti, a dish that combines succulent lobster with buttery pasta. The rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the sweet, tender lobster meat, making it a sophisticated yet easy dish for a romantic dinner. This pasta is the ideal choice for an elegant Valentine’s Day meal.
- 2 lobster tails, shell removed, meat chopped
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Lobster:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the lobster meat and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning until it is opaque and fully cooked. Remove the lobster and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine the Pasta and Lobster:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add the lobster meat back into the pan, and if necessary, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth, silky sauce.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle the pasta with Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of brightness.
Lobster and garlic butter spaghetti is a luxurious and flavorful dish that will make any Valentine’s Day dinner feel special. The sweetness of the lobster paired with the richness of the garlic butter sauce creates a decadent combination. Whether you’re treating yourself and your partner or impressing your guests, this recipe is sure to elevate your evening with its elegant flavors.
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Fettuccine
For a creamy and comforting Valentine’s Day pasta, try this creamy spinach and mushroom fettuccine. The earthy mushrooms and wilted spinach are enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, creating a dish that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone seeking a lighter yet delicious pasta option for the holiday.
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Fettuccine:
- Boil the fettuccine according to package instructions, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the Spinach:
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme. Serve immediately.
This creamy spinach and mushroom fettuccine is a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. The creamy sauce and earthy flavors of the mushrooms and spinach make this pasta both comforting and sophisticated. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy dinner that feels special but doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just a dish that’s rich in flavor, this recipe will undoubtedly make your Valentine’s Day celebration feel indulgent and delicious.
Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Pasta
This roasted red pepper pesto pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that will impress anyone at your Valentine’s Day table. The roasted red peppers blend into a creamy pesto sauce, creating a smooth and aromatic base for the pasta. Paired with fresh basil and Parmesan, it’s a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and rich flavors, ideal for a romantic dinner.
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 large roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Pesto Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil and blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Pesto:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked penne with the roasted red pepper pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Roasted red pepper pesto pasta offers a delightful mix of smoky sweetness and savory richness, making it a great option for Valentine’s Day. The creamy, vibrant pesto elevates the dish, creating a comforting yet elegant meal. This pasta is perfect for those who love bold flavors and will undoubtedly add a touch of romance to any evening.
Shrimp Scampi Linguine
Shrimp scampi linguine is a classic Italian dish that combines juicy shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce, making it an ideal choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The delicate linguine noodles are coated in a flavorful sauce made from butter, garlic, and white wine, with a squeeze of lemon to brighten it all up. It’s a dish that’s both luxurious and easy to make, perfect for a special evening.
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Linguine:
- Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Add the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked linguine and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Shrimp scampi linguine is a timeless and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The buttery, garlicky sauce infuses the pasta and shrimp with rich flavor, while the fresh lemon juice adds a touch of brightness. This easy-to-make yet sophisticated meal is sure to impress and make your Valentine’s celebration extra special.
Pink Vodka Sauce Pasta
Pink vodka sauce pasta is an irresistibly creamy dish with a hint of tang from the vodka and a smooth, tomato-based sauce. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making it a delicious and comforting option for Valentine’s Day. The slight heat from red pepper flakes adds depth, while the vodka enhances the richness of the tomato sauce, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Rigatoni:
- Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Vodka Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka, and stir well. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to thicken.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Pink vodka sauce pasta offers the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a memorable choice for Valentine’s Day. The richness of the vodka sauce pairs wonderfully with the pasta, and the slight heat from the red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. This dish is a luxurious, comforting option that will impress and satisfy anyone you’re sharing it with.
Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce
This heart-shaped ravioli with sage butter sauce is a charming and delicious pasta dish for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The homemade ravioli is stuffed with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, then delicately cooked and tossed in a fragrant butter sauce with crispy sage leaves. The heart-shaped ravioli adds a personal and festive touch, making this dish not only tasty but visually stunning.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 12 fresh sage leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Make the Pasta Dough:
- On a clean surface, form a mound with the flour and create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and add the salt. Using a fork, slowly whisk the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges. Once combined, knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Shape the Ravioli:
- Roll out the dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter or knife. Place a spoonful of the ricotta filling in the center of half of the hearts. Top each filled heart with another heart-shaped dough piece and press around the edges to seal.
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the ravioli into the water and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Make the Sage Butter Sauce:
- While the ravioli cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become crispy and the butter turns golden brown.
- Serve:
- Toss the cooked ravioli in the sage butter sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
This heart-shaped ravioli with sage butter sauce is a wonderfully romantic dish that combines the charm of hand-shaped pasta with the elegance of a butter-sage sauce. The creamy filling and fragrant, crispy sage leaves elevate the ravioli, making it a perfect way to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day. The extra effort to shape the ravioli into hearts makes this dish feel special and thoughtful, sure to impress anyone at your table.
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
A creamy spinach and mushroom pasta is the perfect comforting and rich dish for a cozy Valentine’s dinner. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the fresh spinach in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. This dish is both indulgent and light, making it a perfect choice for a romantic evening.
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Fettuccine:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and browned.
- Add Spinach and Cream:
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Creamy spinach and mushroom pasta is the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, making it an excellent choice for a Valentine’s Day meal. The creamy sauce, complemented by the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, brings a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and elegant. This dish is simple yet decadent, ideal for a cozy, intimate dinner with someone special.
Lobster Ravioli with Lemon Cream Sauce
Lobster ravioli with lemon cream sauce is a luxurious and flavorful pasta dish that is perfect for celebrating love on Valentine’s Day. The delicate lobster-filled ravioli is paired with a tangy, silky lemon cream sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the lobster. This dish combines sophistication with indulgence, making it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner.
- 12 lobster ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup white wine
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Cook the lobster ravioli according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the Ravioli and Sauce:
- Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Serve:
- Plate the ravioli and pour the lemon cream sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Lobster ravioli with lemon cream sauce is a beautifully rich and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The sweetness of the lobster combined with the creamy, tangy lemon sauce creates a sophisticated and luxurious flavor profile. This dish will elevate any meal and make your celebration feel extra special with its refined flavors and elegant presentation.
Pappardelle with Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Sauce
Pappardelle with roasted red pepper and tomato sauce is a vibrant, savory pasta dish that’s both hearty and fresh. The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers blends perfectly with the richness of tomatoes, creating a sauce that clings to the wide ribbons of pappardelle. This pasta is a lovely balance of bold flavors and light textures, perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions:
- Roast the Red Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the skins are charred and blistered. Remove from the oven and let cool. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove seeds, and chop the peppers into small pieces.
- Cook the Pappardelle:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the roasted red peppers, crushed tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pappardelle to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Pappardelle with roasted red pepper and tomato sauce is an unforgettable pasta dish, combining smoky, sweet flavors with the hearty comfort of pasta. The vibrant red sauce adds color and depth, making it an eye-catching dish for any romantic occasion. The balance of rich tomatoes, sweet peppers, and fresh basil is perfect for sharing with a loved one on Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Pasta Carbonara
This Valentine’s Day Pasta Carbonara is a luxurious twist on the classic, with the creamy, savory goodness of eggs, cheese, and pancetta creating a rich and comforting sauce. The subtle smokiness of pancetta paired with the creamy texture of the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, making this dish feel indulgent yet light enough to enjoy on a romantic evening. It’s an easy-to-make yet elegant choice for celebrating love.
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Salt for pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside, leaving a little bit of the rendered fat in the pan.
- Make the Carbonara Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, and black pepper. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the pancetta fat and toss to coat. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately pour the egg mixture over the pasta, quickly tossing to coat. The residual heat will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. Add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve:
- Top the pasta with the crispy pancetta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with extra grated cheese and pepper.
Valentine’s Day Pasta Carbonara is a perfect balance of indulgence and elegance. The creamy sauce, enriched by the richness of the eggs and cheese, along with the savory pancetta, makes for a comforting and sophisticated meal. It’s quick to prepare but feels luxurious—ideal for a special, intimate celebration of love on Valentine’s Day.
Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Shrimp scampi with linguine is a light, flavorful, and quick pasta dish that brings a taste of elegance to your Valentine’s Day dinner. The shrimp, sautéed in garlic, lemon, and butter, infuse the linguine with their rich flavors, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness. The perfect balance of tangy, buttery, and savory, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream for a romantic meal.
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Linguine:
- Cook the linguine pasta according to the package directions. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- Serve:
- Plate the linguine and top with the cooked shrimp. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Shrimp scampi with linguine is the epitome of a romantic seafood dinner, with succulent shrimp bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce that perfectly complements the linguine. The fresh lemon adds a refreshing citrus note, making this dish light yet satisfying. It’s an elegant, quick-to-make meal that will wow your loved one, bringing both flavor and romance to your Valentine’s Day celebration.
Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Asparagus
Lemon garlic butter pasta with asparagus is a zesty and fresh dish that’s perfect for a light yet flavorful Valentine’s Day meal. The tender asparagus spears are sautéed in garlic and butter, and the lemon adds a refreshing brightness that complements the creamy pasta. This dish is a wonderful combination of rich and tangy flavors, with the added crunch of asparagus making it feel indulgent yet light—a wonderful choice for a romantic dinner.
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Asparagus:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Add the cooked asparagus back into the skillet and toss gently. Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with grated Parmesan.
Lemon garlic butter pasta with asparagus is an elegant yet simple dish, perfect for a romantic dinner. The lemon and garlic bring out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, while the buttery sauce adds richness and depth to the pasta. It’s a beautiful, flavorful, and balanced dish that celebrates fresh ingredients, making it a wonderful choice for Valentine’s Day.
Baked Ziti with Spicy Sausage and Ricotta
Baked ziti with spicy sausage and ricotta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines bold flavors and a cheesy, hearty texture. The rich ricotta and mozzarella cheese blend perfectly with the spicy sausage, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. This baked pasta is a perfect way to impress your loved one with a warm, filling, and delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare but full of love.
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Ziti:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Add the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the sausage sauce, and half of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Baked ziti with spicy sausage and ricotta is a comforting, filling dish that’s sure to satisfy on Valentine’s Day. The layers of cheese and sausage create a savory, rich flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced by the warmth and heartiness of the baked pasta. It’s a great option for a cozy and indulgent meal with your significant other.
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Mushroom and spinach stuffed shells offer a flavorful and filling vegetarian option for your Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach creates a savory stuffing that fills each large pasta shell. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the Stuffing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the cooked mushrooms and spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells:
- Spoon the cheese and vegetable mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Mushroom and spinach stuffed shells offer a rich, satisfying, and flavorful alternative for a romantic vegetarian pasta dinner. The creamy ricotta and earthy mushrooms blend seamlessly with the tender spinach, while the marinara sauce and melted mozzarella provide a comforting, hearty finish. This dish is perfect for sharing with someone special on Valentine’s Day, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!