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Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show love and appreciation through a thoughtful, home-cooked meal.
Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends, choosing the right main dish can elevate your celebration and create lasting memories.
From luxurious Beef Wellington and creamy shrimp scampi to comforting vegetable risotto, the possibilities are endless.
This collection of 35+ Valentine’s Day main dish recipes offers a variety of flavors and styles to suit every palate.
Whether you’re a meat lover, a seafood enthusiast, or a vegetarian, there’s a recipe that will make your Valentine’s Day meal truly special.
35+ Mouthwatering Valentine’s Day Main Dish Recipes for an Unforgettable Dinner
No matter how you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day, these 35+ main dish recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and techniques to help you create a memorable dining experience.
From classic comfort food to sophisticated gourmet dishes, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Remember, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the love and effort you put into preparing it.
So, roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember with a delicious, heartfelt meal.
Valentine’s Day Stuffed Chicken Breast
This elegant stuffed chicken breast is a perfect main dish for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a rich combination of spinach, cream cheese, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the lightly seasoned chicken, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, spinach, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the stuffing.
- Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, discard the toothpicks, and serve hot.
This stuffed chicken breast is an impressive dish for Valentine’s Day, offering both flavor and a touch of sophistication. The creamy stuffing makes each bite rich and indulgent, while the golden, seared exterior adds a lovely contrast. Paired with a side of your choice, it makes for a well-balanced and romantic dinner option that is sure to impress.
Valentine’s Day Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter
Lobster tail is a luxurious and indulgent dish that feels perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. This recipe combines succulent lobster tail with a simple yet flavorful garlic butter sauce, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s quick to prepare and will surely leave a lasting impression on your Valentine.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Using kitchen scissors, cut the top shell of the lobster tails lengthwise, being careful not to cut into the meat. Gently pull the meat out of the shell, leaving the base intact.
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the garlic butter mixture over each lobster tail.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
- Serve with lemon wedges and extra garlic butter on the side.
Lobster tail with garlic butter is a decadent choice for a romantic dinner. The lobster is tender and slightly sweet, perfectly complemented by the rich garlic butter. This dish brings a touch of elegance to your Valentine’s Day table without requiring too much time or effort, making it an ideal option for a special evening.
Valentine’s Day Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a show-stopping main dish that brings luxury and sophistication to any special occasion. This recipe combines perfectly seared beef tenderloin with a savory mushroom duxelles and a buttery puff pastry, creating a rich and flavorful entrée that’s sure to impress on Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup shallots, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Remove the beef from the skillet and brush with Dijon mustard. Let it cool.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook until all the moisture evaporates. Add wine and cook until the mixture is dry. Set aside to cool.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread the mushroom mixture in the center and place the beef on top. Wrap the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges.
- Brush the pastry with the beaten egg and place the Wellington on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Beef Wellington is a showstopper that will elevate any romantic dinner. The combination of savory beef, rich mushroom duxelles, and flaky pastry is a mouthwatering experience that feels both indulgent and celebratory. This dish requires a bit of preparation, but the results are well worth the effort for a memorable Valentine’s Day meal.
Valentine’s Day Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Red Wine Sauce
Duck breast is a rich and flavorful protein that makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day main dish. This recipe focuses on achieving crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Paired with a luscious red wine reduction sauce, it’s a dish that combines elegance and indulgence for a romantic celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 duck breasts, skin-on
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crisscross pattern and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the duck breasts skin-side down and cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the duck breasts and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness (medium-rare is ideal). Remove the duck from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, pour in the red wine, chicken stock, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a boil, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Reduce the sauce by half and then stir in the butter until smooth and glossy.
- Slice the duck breast and drizzle the red wine sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.
This pan-seared duck breast is a luxurious dish that will elevate your Valentine’s Day dinner. The crispy skin, tender meat, and velvety red wine sauce combine for an unforgettable experience. Paired with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a romantic evening.
Valentine’s Day Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that is perfect for a romantic dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a delicate yet flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta. This dish is quick to prepare and feels elegant enough for a Valentine’s Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shrimp back into the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss to coat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve the shrimp scampi with lemon wedges on the side.
Shrimp scampi with angel hair pasta is a light yet indulgent dish that is perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The shrimp is tender and flavorful, while the garlic and lemon sauce adds brightness and depth. The angel hair pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully, making each bite a delicious treat. This dish is simple to prepare but feels luxurious, making it a fantastic choice for a romantic evening.
Valentine’s Day Grilled Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust
A rack of lamb is a show-stopping main dish that exudes luxury and sophistication. This recipe features lamb chops seasoned with a flavorful herb crust and grilled to perfection. The tender meat, combined with the fragrant herb coating, creates a memorable dish that’s perfect for an elegant Valentine’s Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of lamb, frenched (8 bones)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Rub the lamb rack with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic, rosemary, thyme, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
- Brush the lamb with Dijon mustard and then press the breadcrumb mixture onto the meat to form an even crust.
- Place the lamb rack on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred level of doneness.
- Let the lamb rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into individual chops.
- Drizzle the lamb with balsamic vinegar and serve.
The grilled rack of lamb with herb crust is an impressive and flavorful dish that will make your Valentine’s Day dinner unforgettable. The lamb is tender and juicy, while the herb crust adds a savory depth to each bite. The balsamic vinegar provides a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the lamb. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or a light salad, creating a sophisticated and memorable meal.
Valentine’s Day Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter
Filet mignon is a tender and luxurious cut of beef, making it a perfect choice for an upscale Valentine’s Day dinner. This recipe pairs the steak with a rich blue cheese butter that melts into the warm meat, offering a decadent, savory flavor. The combination of perfectly seared filet mignon and creamy blue cheese creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for a romantic evening.
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add olive oil to the skillet and place the steaks in the pan. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a different level of doneness.
- While the steaks are cooking, mix the softened butter, blue cheese, thyme, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Once the steaks are done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Top each filet with a dollop of the blue cheese butter, allowing it to melt over the hot steak.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
This filet mignon with blue cheese butter is an elegant and rich dish that will impress any guest on Valentine’s Day. The tender, juicy steak combined with the creamy, tangy blue cheese butter creates a mouthwatering contrast that is perfect for a special occasion. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a side salad to complete the meal.
Valentine’s Day Grilled Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze
Grilled salmon with honey mustard glaze is a light yet flavorful dish that makes for a beautiful and healthy Valentine’s Day main course. The sweetness of honey combined with the tangy mustard creates a savory-sweet glaze that enhances the rich flavor of the salmon. This dish is quick to prepare and has a vibrant presentation, making it perfect for a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and place them on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- During the last minute of grilling, brush the salmon with the honey mustard glaze.
- Remove the salmon from the grill and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.
This grilled salmon with honey mustard glaze is a delightful and light option for Valentine’s Day. The fish is moist and flavorful, with the sweet and tangy glaze enhancing its natural richness. It’s a healthy yet indulgent dish that will impress your Valentine, making it a perfect choice for a special meal.
Valentine’s Day Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
For a vegetarian option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, these sweet potato and black bean enchiladas are an excellent choice. The sweet, tender sweet potatoes paired with hearty black beans and a rich enchilada sauce create a satisfying and comforting dish. It’s a colorful, flavorful main course that’s perfect for a cozy, romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the black beans and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for 1 minute on each side, then spoon the sweet potato and black bean mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
These sweet potato and black bean enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful vegetarian option for Valentine’s Day. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory beans and tangy enchilada sauce, while the melted cheese adds richness. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for anyone looking for a vegetarian main dish that still feels indulgent.
Valentine’s Day Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter
Lobster tail is the epitome of luxury and a perfect dish to serve on Valentine’s Day. This recipe combines tender, succulent lobster tail with a rich, garlicky butter sauce that will elevate your dining experience. It’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top of each lobster tail shell, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat up, leaving it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell.
- Season the lobster meat with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and drizzle with the garlic butter mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
This lobster tail with garlic butter is a luxurious and simple dish that adds a touch of elegance to your Valentine’s Day dinner. The sweet, tender lobster meat pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery garlic sauce. It’s an impressive yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere.
Valentine’s Day Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a classic, flavorful Italian dish that’s perfect for a special night in. The tender chicken is simmered in a rich mushroom and Marsala wine sauce, making for a comforting yet elegant main course. This dish is easy to prepare but delivers a sophisticated flavor profile that’s perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken.
- Stir in the butter until the sauce becomes silky and smooth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Chicken Marsala is a perfect main dish for a cozy and romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The rich Marsala wine sauce with earthy mushrooms complements the tender chicken, creating a deliciously comforting meal. It’s an ideal dish for impressing your loved one with a simple yet elegant dinner.
Valentine’s Day Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed bell peppers are an excellent choice for a colorful and nutritious Valentine’s Day meal. Filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, these peppers are hearty and flavorful. Topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, they’re not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
These stuffed bell peppers are a vibrant and flavorful option for Valentine’s Day. They are filling and healthy while still feeling festive and special. The combination of quinoa, beans, and vegetables is both nutritious and satisfying, and the melted cheese adds a deliciously rich finish.
Valentine’s Day Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a luxurious and show-stopping dish that’s perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. Tender beef tenderloin is wrapped in a layer of rich mushroom duxelles and puff pastry, then baked until golden and crispy. This dish is as delicious as it is visually stunning, making it a memorable centerpiece for a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin (center cut)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 12 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and brush the beef with Dijon mustard. Let it cool.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until all the moisture evaporates and the mushrooms become a thick paste, about 10 minutes. Add the wine and cook until it’s evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Lay the prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, overlapping slightly. Spread the mushroom mixture over the prosciutto.
- Place the beef in the center of the prosciutto and carefully roll it up, using the plastic wrap to help. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set the shape.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Unwrap the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry around the beef, trimming any excess.
- Brush the pastry with the beaten egg, then place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy).
- Let the Beef Wellington rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Beef Wellington is a rich and indulgent main course that is sure to impress on Valentine’s Day. The combination of tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, prosciutto, and buttery puff pastry creates a sophisticated and decadent dish. Serve it with a glass of red wine and roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal.
Valentine’s Day Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta
Shrimp scampi is a classic, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce, then tossed with delicate angel hair pasta. The bright, zesty flavors make this dish light yet satisfying, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare for a last-minute romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce slightly reduces.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
- Stir in the lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and toss again.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Shrimp scampi with angel hair pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that will make your Valentine’s Day meal feel special without requiring too much time in the kitchen. The buttery, garlicky sauce complements the sweet shrimp perfectly, while the lemon adds a fresh brightness. This dish is light but indulgent and will leave you craving more.
Valentine’s Day Vegetable Risotto
This creamy vegetable risotto is a comforting and rich vegetarian option for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The risotto’s silky texture, combined with the flavors of roasted vegetables and Parmesan cheese, makes for a hearty yet elegant main dish. It’s a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, ideal for a cozy evening with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the pan, cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the risotto is cooked, stir in the cooked vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This vegetable risotto is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for a romantic, comforting Valentine’s Day meal. The combination of tender vegetables and creamy risotto is satisfying, while the Parmesan adds a deliciously salty finish. It’s an elegant and delicious option for anyone seeking a vegetarian main course that still feels indulgent and special.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!