Planning for a special night with your one and only can feel stressful if you offer to do the cooking. But don’t worry we are here to help you find the perfect date night meal to wow your special someone.Â
We have put together some of our favourite date night meals that are always winners. All these meals are simple to make with an end result that looks anything but simple.Â
With Valentine’s day just around the corner try one of these six perfect date night meals for your loved one.Â
Whether you are cooking for a long time partner, a new flame or a good friend one of these meals is sure to be the perfect fit.Â
Before we get to the cooking let’s chat about how to create the perfect setting for a romantic evening for two. In addition to the perfect date night meal, you can make the night even better with a few special touches.
Top Tips for the Perfect Date Night Dinner
Use a TableclothÂ
Picking a setting can feel overwhelming but don’t worry you don’t have to overthink it. My rule is to stick to the KISS principle. Keeping it simple, silly, is the only way to go.Â
Just adding a tablecloth can make a huge difference. If you have a colour scheme in mind work with that. If not, stick to white! White plates on a white tablecloth can easily be spruced up with a coloured charger and napkins.Â
Add Flowers
Another way to add some romance to your date night dinner, and an easy way to add some colour is to include flowers to your table setting. Even just one simple rose in a delicate vase will make a world of difference.Â
TIP: If you suspect that your valentine will bring you flowers don’t add a huge bouquet to your table. It might make their gift seem less significant and you might end up with too many flowers for a dinner for two.Â
Play MusicÂ
No one likes awkward silence even if you’ve sat in silence together many times. It just always feels a little too quiet when you’re trying to enjoy your delicious meal so don’t forget music.Â
If you don’t already use a streaming service you can get a free account with Spotify and use one of their ready-to-play romantic playlists right away.Â
This is also a good opportunity to share your favourite love songs with your date. If you have nothing to chat about use music as jump off point.Â
Use Dim Lighting
If you have a dimmer, use it! Sitting in bright lights can feel harsh on the eyes. If you don’t have a dimmer, skip the lights in the dining room and turn on the light in a room near by. Then add some candles to the table to add that perfect flicker to set the right mood.Â
Not only are dim lights romantic they also take the pressure off how you look while you’re eating or better yet, hide that little something stuck in your teeth. At least until you
have a chance to go to the bathroom to freshen up.Â
Make the Perfect Meal
Last but certainly not least, pick a meal that your guest will likely enjoy. Whether you are dating your wife or someone you just met a romantic date isn’t the time to force someone to try something they don’t enjoy.Â
You want to make something that is different from your day-to-day but not so different that your date will find the first excuse to leave. I assure you there is a balance. If you don’t already know, ask about their food preferences, restrictions, and risk tolerance.Â
You also want to choose a meal you feel confident cooking. Pick a dish with ingredients you know and techniques you’re comfortable with and you’re sure to have a stress-free evening. If you want to try something new, combine one new component with others you already know how to make.Â
How to Successfully Follow a Recipe for the First TimeÂ
These last few tips will help you make your perfect meal without any stress. When making a recipe for the first time make sure you:
- Read the recipe from beginning to end before you even get the groceries. Make sure you understand the process, techniques, and ingredients.Â
- Prepare your shopping list a few days in advance. Figure out what you already have and double-check that you have enough of it. If you need a spice you have on hand make sure you actually have enough for the recipe.Â
- Do your grocery shopping no later than the day before. Don’t leave everything to the day of the cooking. Going to the grocery store can be exhausting enough. Plus you don’t want to be stuck with all the other last-minute shoppers, or worse to be stuck without a key ingredient because your local store is freshly out.Â
- Get all the ingredients ready before you start cooking. Gather all of your ingredients, and make sure they are accessible. Wash anything that requires washing and make sure your equipment is ready to go. Starting with a clean surface that has everything you need lined up and ready to go will set you up for success.Â
Now that you are prepped for making the perfect meal, let’s pick your ideal recipe. Here are our top six recipes for date night.Â
1. Chicken Thighs Stuffed with Cream Cheese, Feta and Spinach
First on the list is one of my favourite meals to make. It's a little messy so you have to be prepared to get your hands a little dirty but I personally think that's what makes it fun. Pair this dish with pan-roasted asparagus and parmesan roasted potatoes for the perfect date night meal.
2. Cast Iron Striploin Steak
Next up we have a traditional lovebirds meal and one that is perfect for the carnivore in your life. Follow this recipe as written and I promise you will have the perfect medium rare striploin steak. Steak frites is of course the perfect combo so add some french fries and your favourite veggies as a side and you won't be disappointed.
3. Potato and Cauliflower Curry
In contrast to our second favourite date night meal, number three is for the vegetarian apple of your eye. This potato and cauliflower curry paired with some warm naan and basmati rice will leave you both feeling satisfied. For an extra boost of protein add some canned chickpeas or tofu when you add the tomato paste.
4. Chicken Cacciatore
Not all pasta is made for date night, but if you want a comfort food worthy of your love this chicken cacciatore will be the perfect pasta to serve. The longer cooking process allows the flavours to marry into the perfect flavour base and almost creamy texture.
5. Asparagus and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
If you're looking for something a little different but still simple to make, our asparagus and mozzarella stuffed chicken breast with a side of couscous with sweet butternut squash is the perfect meal. The stuffed chicken could not be easier to make and while its baking you can make the couscous without any stress.
6. Tuscan Chicken on Rice
Last but not least is this incredible Tuscan chicken on a bed of white rice. Another meal that will not leave you sweaty and overwhelmed when you're done. A few simple ingredients are put together into this beautiful and delicious meal for the one you love.
