Warm him up with a yummy appetizer
While you might associate Valentine's Day with all things sweet, a store-bought box of chocolates may not be the most thoughtful way to say "I love you" when your partner isn't a big fan of sugary things. So why not send him an invitation to meet you at home, turn the lights down low and surprise your mate with a savoury home-cooked meal?
Jeniece Isley, one of the authors of The Get 'Em Girls' Guide to the Power of Cuisine (Fireside, 2008) wholeheartedly believes that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. "The nurturing aspect associated with cooking for your mate shows that you care about his health and well-being," she says. But there's also a little something in it for you. "First and foremost, you get to spend an intimate dinner together."If the kitchen is not your comfort zone, Isley suggests approaching dinner as a team effort. "If you and your sweetie delve into the process together, not only will it help to ease some of the pressure, but it can also turn into a fun and flirty prelude to a fabulous evening."
Set the scene
To make it a special night, resist the urge to throw on your sweatpants and do a load of laundry while you make dinner. Instead, turn up the heat and put on that summer sundress he loves so much, despite the snow outside.
"This is the perfect time to pack up the TV tables and pull out the service for two," says Isley. She also suggests creating flattering lighting, just like in a cozy bistro. "Simple touches like tea-light candles around the house is a great way to set a mood without breaking the bank."
A great beginning
Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to slow down the pace of a busy lifestyle. Draw your evening out and make the most of your time together by starting with an appetizer. Isley recommends Oyster and Roasted Red Pepper Crostini. "It is absolutely delicious." And it could potentially set the scene for an enjoyable after-dinner event. "Oysters are known for their amorous effect," she says. "It's the appetizer that keeps on giving."
Check out Isley's suggestions for the main course...
Page 1 of 2
Jeniece Isley, one of the authors of The Get 'Em Girls' Guide to the Power of Cuisine (Fireside, 2008) wholeheartedly believes that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. "The nurturing aspect associated with cooking for your mate shows that you care about his health and well-being," she says. But there's also a little something in it for you. "First and foremost, you get to spend an intimate dinner together."If the kitchen is not your comfort zone, Isley suggests approaching dinner as a team effort. "If you and your sweetie delve into the process together, not only will it help to ease some of the pressure, but it can also turn into a fun and flirty prelude to a fabulous evening."
Set the scene
To make it a special night, resist the urge to throw on your sweatpants and do a load of laundry while you make dinner. Instead, turn up the heat and put on that summer sundress he loves so much, despite the snow outside.
"This is the perfect time to pack up the TV tables and pull out the service for two," says Isley. She also suggests creating flattering lighting, just like in a cozy bistro. "Simple touches like tea-light candles around the house is a great way to set a mood without breaking the bank."
A great beginning
Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to slow down the pace of a busy lifestyle. Draw your evening out and make the most of your time together by starting with an appetizer. Isley recommends Oyster and Roasted Red Pepper Crostini. "It is absolutely delicious." And it could potentially set the scene for an enjoyable after-dinner event. "Oysters are known for their amorous effect," she says. "It's the appetizer that keeps on giving."
Check out Isley's suggestions for the main course...
Page 1 of 2
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