By michael vivar
The average bill for a romantic couple's night out is $154, but expressing love for your other half doesn't always have to be so expensive.
What many don’t even consider is that it’s possible to prepare dishes of the same quality at home for a fraction of the cost.
Additionally, small-plate appetizers take less effort than a full feast and allow people to focus on what's important, each other. Here are starters for your Valentine's Day menu.
Fresh, pink smoked salmon is festively colored and tastes delicately of a seaside breeze. Serve on crostini or toasted pita and top with sprouts and dill sauce.
Blend a favored fromage with some cream cheese to make it pliant. Shape into balls and roll them in herbs or sesame seeds. Pair with raw nuts and berries.
Don't let the French nomenclature intimidate. Use frozen puff pastry and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Stuff the pastry with meat, cheese and steamed veg.
Brush small sprout heads with olive oil and roast in the oven for 40 min at 375 F until crispy. This dish pairs well with a dipping sauce of Sriracha, mayo, lemon and lime.
Wrap avocado wedges with bacon. Cook rapidly with an air fryer, if available. Otherwise, bake for 35 min at 400 F. Drizzle with jam for a sweet/salty/savory flavor burst.
Use the opportunity to strut your personality through cuisine. Sharing enjoyment is a demonstration of letting someone in.
Sometimes the most obvious solution is the one least chosen. Inquiring what a person desires sets the stage that they'll be looked after as a relationship matures.
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." - Charles Schulz, creator of Peanuts comic strip
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