A romantic gourmet dinner wins every heart!

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A romantic gourmet dinner makes every day Valentine’s Day! A home cooked meal is a great way to show love and appreciation for that special person in your life. I love a theme and this easy to prepare Italian menu will impress your sweetheart! A beautifully set table enhances the experience. Bring out your best linen, china and cutlery and don’t forget the candles!

Antipasto

Charcuterie and cheese is a traditional start to an Italian meal. An artfully arranged platter of salumi and formaggi includes soft and aged cheeses such as mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano and cured meats such as prosciutto, mortadella or soprasetta. To add color and additional flavors, include a selection of artichoke hearts, olives, nuts, and fresh and dried fruits. A drizzle of honey on the side adds a sweet garnish. For a starch, arrange crackers, bread sticks or focaccia around the plate.

Primo

A pasta course follows the antipasto. There is more delicious food to come, and I suggest that you serve a small plate of your favorite pasta with a healthy dollop of Basil Walnut Pesto.

Secondo

Chicken Parmesan is a delicious entrée sure to earn your lover’s approval. Breaded chicken nestled in Molly’s Marinara and topped with slices of fresh mozzarella is a luxurious dish rich in flavor. A side of steamed broccolini adds some texture an accent of green color to the plate.

Contorno

Mediterranean Orange Olive Salad is a light dish that is sweet and briny. Red onion adds a little “bite” and “heat” and rosemary adds a hint of lemon and pine. A good quality extra virgin olive oil rounds out the flavors.

Dolci

Lemon Almond Ricotta Cake or Wine Poached Pears is a sumptuous conclusion to this romantic gourmet dinner. After the first bite, don’t be surprised if your beloved shouts, “ti amo!”

Bubbles, Bon Bons and Bouquets

Celebrate the event with a bottle of Champagne or other type of bubbly. Check out Wine.com for great deals on Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut, La Marca Prosecco, or Dibon Cava Reserve Brut.

A night of romance isn’t complete without a box of chocolates and a bouquet of roses. Shop at Godiva.com for premium chocolates. FTD speaks the language of flowers and has beautiful long stemmed rose bouquets in all colors.

You and your amour will love this romantic gourmet dinner. Dim the lights, pour some bubbly and enjoy a night of passion that would make Cupid blush!