Valentine’s Day is a special day to celebrate love and relationships. It is also known as Saint Valentine’s Day, which is an annual holiday celebrated on February 14th. It is a day of romance and love, where couples exchange gifts, cards, and messages to express their affection for each other. The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a Catholic priest who was martyred in the 3rd century. The day has become a popular occasion to express love and affection not just to romantic partners, but also to family members, friends, and pets.
And what better way to make it even more special than with a romantic dinner date? If you’re looking for some delicious ideas for that special night, we’ve got you covered. From succulent steaks to light and refreshing salads, these 31 must-try Valentine’s Day dinner ideas for 2023 are sure to tantalize your taste buds. No matter what kind of eater you are, there’s something here for everyone. Read on to find exactly what you should make this Valentine’s Day!
1. Crispy Pan-seared Salmon
Crispy pan-seared salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. Because, salmon is a nutritious and tasty fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins B12 and D. Pan-searing is a simple cooking method that involves browning the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan for a few minutes until crispy, then flipping and cooking for another minute or two until just cooked through. This dish is one of the top-rated valentines day dinner ideas that is selected by the creators of the recipe to cook.
2. Best Greek Salad Dressing
There’s no better way to show your Valentine how much you care than by cooking them a luxurious, romantic dinner. And what could be more perfect for a special occasion than a Greek salad with the best dressing?
This Greek salad dressing is made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt. It’s the perfect combination of tangy and savory, and it will make your salad taste as if it came straight from a restaurant.
To make this dressing, simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until they’re well combined. Then, drizzle it over your salad and enjoy!
3. Corned Beef and Cabbage
Corned beef and cabbage are a classic Irish dish that makes one of the great valentines day dinner ideas. The beef is cooked in a flavorful broth with onions, carrots, and cabbage. It’s a hearty dish that will fill you up without leaving you feeling too full. Serve it with some boiled potatoes and a green vegetable for a complete meal.
4. Lamb for Valentine’s Day
Lamb is the traditional main dish for valentines day dinner in many cultures, and for good reason! This delicious and versatile meat is perfect for a holiday feast. Whether you roast a whole leg of lamb or cook up some lamb chops, your guests will be impressed. Serve your lamb with some flavorful sides and a nice bottle of wine, and you have a meal fit for a holiday.
5. Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of fettuccine pasta tossed in a creamy sauce made of butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. It’s usually served with grilled or sauteed chicken on top. It is a rich and indulgent dish, high in calories and fat, but can be a treat in moderation.
Try chicken fettuccine alfredo
6. Fennel-crusted Rib Roast
Fennel-Crusted Rib Roast is a dish that features a seasoned coating of crushed fennel seeds and other spices on top of a juicy and flavorful roast beef cut. This dish is typically made by coating a rib roast with a mixture of crushed fennel seeds, herbs, garlic, and other spices, then roasting it in the oven until tender and cooked to your desired doneness. The fennel adds a unique flavor and aroma to the roast, making it a delicious and impressive main course for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
7. Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta
Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta is a pasta dish made with cooked shrimp, mozzarella cheese, and a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The sauce is tossed with cooked pasta, and the shrimp and mozzarella cheese are stirred until heated. It’s a rich and flavorful dish, high in fat and calories, that makes a satisfying and comforting meal.
8. Beef Steak
Beef is always a good choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner. It’s hearty and filling, and there are so many different ways to prepare it. Whether you like your beef rare or well done, there’s a recipe out there for you.
If you’re looking for something truly special, try a beef tenderloin. This cut of meat is extremely tender, and it cooks up quickly. Season it with some simple spices, and serve it with your favorite sides. Your Valentine is sure to be impressed.
Another great option is a ribeye steak. This cut has tons of flavor and is relatively easy to cook. Just be sure not to overcook it, or it will be tough. Serve it with a delicious sauce, and your Valentine will be in steak heaven.
Finally, if you want to keep things simple, try a sirloin steak. This cut is affordable and easy to find, but it can still be cooked to perfection. Season it with salt and pepper, and serve it with your favorite vegetables. Your Valentine will be impressed by your cooking skills – and by the delicious steak, they get to enjoy!
9. Chicken Bolognese with Penne
Chicken Bolognese with Penne is a pasta dish that features a rich tomato-based sauce made with ground chicken, onions, garlic, red wine, and various seasonings. The sauce is simmered until thick and flavorful, then tossed with cooked penne pasta. The dish is typically topped with grated Parmesan cheese, providing a creamy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a valentines day occasion.
10. Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley. It’s a simple, quick, and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and requires few ingredients. It’s often considered a classic Italian comfort food.
11.Chicken Francaise
Chicken Francaise is a French dish made with boneless chicken cutlets that are coated in egg and seasoned flour, then sautéed until golden and crispy. The dish is finished with a lemon butter sauce made from lemon juice, white wine, and chicken stock. It’s a simple and elegant dish that’s often served with rice or pasta.
12. Hoppin John Recipe
Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and flavorful seasonings such as bacon, onion, and spices. The dish is said to have become popular in the Southern US during the 19th century. It is said to have been a favorite of President Andrew Jackson, who was known to enjoy it often.
13. Rib Roast
A rib roast, also known as prime rib, is a cut of beef from the rib section of the animal. It is typically roasted in an oven and is considered a speciality dish for special occasions such as holidays. The meat is well-marbled and flavorful and is usually served sliced, with its natural juices. A rib roast typically consists of 7 ribs and can range in size from 2 to 7 pounds.
14. Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Ham and cheese sandwich is a classic sandwich made with sliced ham, cheese, and typically lettuce, tomato, mustard, or mayonnaise on bread. The bread can be any type, such as white, whole wheat, or a roll. The cheese used can be any type such as cheddar, Swiss, or American. This simple sandwich can be served hot or cold and is a popular option for lunch or a quick and easy meal.
15. Mushroom Soup
Mushroom soup is a type of soup made from mushrooms and other ingredients such as vegetables, seasonings, and broth or cream. It is a creamy, savory soup that is typically served as a starter or light meal. Some variations of mushroom soup include a blend of different types of mushrooms for added depth of flavor, or the addition of wine or herbs for extra complexity. Mushroom soup can be served hot or cold and is a popular vegetarian option.
16. Korean Tacos
Korean tacos are a fusion dish that combines traditional Mexican tacos with Korean flavors and ingredients. They typically consist of a tortilla filled with Korean-style marinated meats such as bulgogi (marinated beef) or chicken, topped with ingredients such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and sriracha sauce. Korean tacos are popular street food and are widely available at food trucks and speciality restaurants. They are known for their unique blend of flavors and the combination of spicy and savory ingredients.
17. Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori chicken is a popular dish originating from India that is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, and then cooking it in a clay oven called a tandoor. The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat and the spices add flavor and color. The chicken is typically marinated for several hours, or overnight, to infuse it with the flavors fully. The tandoor oven provides high heat that quickly cooks the chicken, giving it a charred exterior and a juicy, tender interior. Tandoori chicken is commonly served with rice or naan bread and is known for its signature bright red color and tangy, spicy flavor.
18. Diet Coke and Champagne
Diet Coke is a sugar-free, calorie-free, and caffeine-free soft drink marketed as a healthier alternative to regular Coca-Cola. This cocktail is a perfect addition to valentines day dinner.
Champagne is a sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France and is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. It is known for its bubbly and celebratory nature, often associated with special occasions such as weddings and New Year’s Eve.
Mixing Diet Coke and Champagne is a cocktail known as a “Champagne Cocktail” or a “Diet Coke and Champagne” which is a popular drink among young people.
19. Latke Recipe
Latkes are a popular dish originating from Eastern Europe and are often served during Hanukkah as they are made with potatoes which are fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil during the holiday. They can be made with just potatoes or a combination of potatoes and other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
20. Praire Oyster
Prairie Oyster is a traditional Canadian hangover cure consisting of a shot of whiskey mixed with Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and raw egg yolk. The drink is usually consumed quickly, without pausing to allow the flavors to blend. It is believed to help alleviate symptoms of a hangover, although its effectiveness is not scientifically proven.
21. Wiener Schnitzel
Wiener Schnitzel is a traditional dish from Austria, made of a thin veal cutlet that is breaded and fried. It is typically served with a side of potatoes and lingonberry or cranberry sauce. It is considered the national dish of Austria and is popular in German-speaking countries as well. This dish is also considered to be one of the best valentines day dinner ideas.
22. Guacamole
Guacamole is a Mexican dip made from mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, and other ingredients like tomato, onion, garlic, and cilantro. It’s typically served with tortilla chips as a snack or dinner appetizer, but can also be used as a condiment in various Mexican dishes.
23. Stuffed Hatch Chile
Stuffed Hatch Chile refers to a dish where the Hatch chili pepper is filled with a mixture of cheese, meat, or other ingredients and then roasted or baked. It’s a popular dish in the Southwestern United States, especially in New Mexico where the Hatch chili is grown. The dish can be served as one of the best valentines day dinner ideas and is known for its bold flavor and spicy kick.
24. Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a popular Mexican-style dish consisting of marinated and grilled chicken strips, served with sauteed bell peppers and onions on a warm flour or corn tortilla. The dish is typically seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, and can be garnished with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado. Fajitas are often served as a main course and are typically accompanied by sides like rice, beans, or salsa.
25. Chicken Potpie
Chicken Potpie is a classic American dish consisting of a flaky pie crust filled with a creamy mixture of cooked chicken, vegetables such as carrots, peas, and potatoes, and a savory sauce. The filling is baked inside the pie crust until the crust is golden brown, creating a warm and comforting meal. It is a popular comfort food and is often served as a main course for dinner.
26. Simple Taco Soup
Simple Taco Soup is a type of soup that has the flavor of tacos and typically includes ingredients such as ground beef, diced tomatoes, beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and other seasonings. It can be served with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado, and is often accompanied by tortilla chips or cornbread. This type of valentines day dinner idea is easy to make and is a crowd-pleaser, making it a popular choice for family dinners, potlucks, and parties.
27. Lasagna
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish consisting of layers of flat pasta sheets, meat or vegetables, and a sauce made from tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings. The layers are assembled in a baking dish and baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and the sauce is hot and bubbly. Common fillings for lasagna include ground beef, Italian sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese. There are many variations of lasagna, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, and it is often served as a main course for dinner. Lasagna is known for its comfort-food qualities and its rich, satisfying flavor.
28. New England Clam Chowder
It is a creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, onion, and celery in a milk or cream-based broth. It originated in the coastal regions of New England in the United States and is considered a classic dish of American cuisine. It is typically seasoned with thyme, bay leaves, and bacon, and is served hot with crackers or oyster crackers.
29. Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo is a popular dish in the Philippines that is made by simmering chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black peppercorns. It is a savory and slightly tangy dish usually served with rice. The dish is considered a national dish of the Philippines and is widely enjoyed by Filipinos. The flavors in Adobo can be adjusted to taste, and some variations include the addition of bay leaves, sugar, and other ingredients.
30. Fast-baked Fish
Fast Baked Fish is one of the best valentines day dinner ideas and an easy method of cooking fish in the oven. The fish is seasoned and coated with oil or butter, then baked in a hot oven for 10-15 minutes, until cooked through and flaky. This method is suitable for any firm, white fish fillets, such as tilapia, cod, or halibut, and can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a salad.
31. Frangipane King’s Cake
Frangipane King’s Cake, also known as Galette des Rois, is a traditional French pastry that is typically eaten during the celebration of Epiphany (January 6th). It is a puff pastry cake filled with an almond cream called frangipane. The cake is usually round or oval-shaped and is decorated with gold, silver, or jewel-shaped decorations. It is traditionally served with a crown or tiara and made customary for the person who finds a small ceramic figurine, called a “fève,” baked inside the cake to become the “king” or “queen” for the day. One of the perfect valentines day dinner ideas for a romantic couple.
Special valentines day experiences
In conclusion, there are numerous valentines day dinner ideas, ranging from traditional sit-down meals to unique and adventurous experiences. Whether you prefer a cozy dinner at home, a fancy meal at a restaurant, or a creative twist on the traditional dinner, there’s something for everyone. Some ideas include a candlelit dinner for two, a gourmet picnic in the park, cooking a fancy meal together, or trying new cuisine. Whichever option you choose, make sure to spend quality time with your loved one, enjoy good food, and create lasting memories on this special day. Creators of the recipe to cook have a great idea for your valentines day dinner. That is the romantic dinner in the sky. Learn more about dinner in the sky below;
Valentine’s day dinner ideas: Dinner in the Sky
It is a unique dining experience where guests are suspended in the air while they enjoy a romantic meal. The experience involves diners being seated at a table that is attached to a crane or platform and lifted up to a height of several hundred feet. While suspended in the air, guests are served a gourmet meal and enjoy breathtaking views of their surroundings. This type of dining experience is typically only available in a few select cities and is a popular activity for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a unique and memorable way. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, such events may be canceled or limited in certain regions.
Celebrate dinner in the sky worldwide
Dinner in the Sky is a unique dining experience that takes place in several cities around the world. During this experience, guests are suspended in the air while they enjoy a meal, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Dinner in the Sky events are usually held in major cities and popular tourist destinations, and they offer a unique way to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or Valentine’s Day.
To participate in Dinner in the Sky, guests typically need to make a reservation in advance, as spaces are limited. The experience usually lasts for a few hours, and it includes a gourmet meal prepared by a team of chefs. The exact menu and experience may vary depending on the location, but guests can expect an unforgettable and unique dining experience.
Overall, Dinner in the Sky is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day or any special occasion in a unique and memorable way. If you are interested in experiencing Dinner in the Sky, you can check the official website of dinner in the sky or search for available events in your area. A few world-famous dinners in the sky provided cities are Dinner in the Sky Dubai, Dinner in the sky NYC, and Dinner in the sky Orlando.
How much is dinner in the sky?
The cost of Dinner in the Sky can vary depending on several factors such as the location, menu, and duration of the experience. On average, a Dinner in the Sky experience can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 or more per person, depending on the package and amenities included. Some Dinner in the Sky experiences offers premium menus and wine pairing, which can increase the cost. Additionally, the cost may also be affected by the time of year, as prices may be higher during peak seasons or holidays like Valentine’s Day.
It’s important to keep in mind that Dinner in the Sky is a unique and exclusive dining experience, and the cost reflects the level of service, quality of food, and overall experience.
So, whether you choose to celebrate with a special gift like dinner in the sky, a romantic outing, or simply by spending quality time with your loved one, the most important thing is to make this day a special one for you and your loved ones.
Where there is love, there is life. So, try valentines day dinner ideas with your most loved person.
Happy Valentines Day! ♥