This carefully curated meal begins with a light yet flavourful starter, followed by a satisfying main course, and ends with a delicate, sweet treat. Each dish is designed to be visually stunning, full of flavour, and nourishing—because feeling great is just as important as enjoying a special meal. Let’s get started on your Valentine’s Day meal with recipes that celebrate love, health, and deliciousness!
Starter: Creamed Goat’s Cheese & Roast Beetroot Salad
A great Valentine’s Day meal starts with an impressive yet easy-to-make appetizer, and this roasted beetroot and goat’s cheese salad ticks all the boxes. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and bursting with flavour, making it the perfect way to begin your evening. The earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot pairs beautifully with creamy goat’s cheese, while crispy ciabatta and toasted hazelnuts add texture and crunch. Topped with a bright citrus zest, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium beetroots, washed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ small ciabatta loaf, thinly sliced
- 100g ash log goat’s cheese
- 50g low-fat crème fraiche
- ½ tsp thyme leaves
- Drizzle of truffle oil (optional)
- 1 red chicory
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 1 tbsp chopped toasted hazelnuts
- 1 orange, zested
Dressing:
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Toss the beetroot in half the olive oil, season, cover with foil, and roast for 1 hour. Once cooled, peel and cut into wedges.
- Whisk all the dressing ingredients together. Toss the beetroot in the dressing to lightly pickle.
- Drizzle ciabatta slices with olive oil and bake for 8 minutes until crisp.
- Mash the goat’s cheese with crème fraiche, thyme, and truffle oil. Spoon into a piping bag and chill.
- Arrange beetroot, chicory, and apple slices on the plate. Pipe the goat’s cheese, top with croutons, hazelnuts, and orange zest.
(Tip: Prepare the beetroot and cheese mix ahead of time to reduce stress on the night!)
Craving more? Find the full recipe here.
Main Course: Marry Me Chicken
The name says it all—this dish is so delicious; it’s been rumoured to inspire marriage proposals! Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavourful main that feels indulgent while still being nutritious. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety sauce creates a luxurious dining experience. If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, Marry Me Tofu offers the same rich flavours with a vegetarian twist.
Ingredients:
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- ½ tsp low-sodium chicken bouillon
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 3 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- Baguette, for serving
Method:
- Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan.
- Sauté shallots and garlic until soft. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, then add bouillon and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, stir in cream cheese, and let simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with warm baguette slices.
(Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with tofu for a plant-based take!)
Enjoyed this recipe? Find out more here.
Dessert: French Macarons
What’s a romantic dinner recipe without a sophisticated, bite-sized treat to finish the meal? These classic French macarons have a crisp shell, a chewy centre, and are filled with a sweet, tangy raspberry preserve. Their delicate pink hue makes them a perfect addition to your Valentine’s menu, adding elegance and a touch of charm.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups superfine almond flour
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 drops pink food colouring
- 9 tbsp raspberry preserves
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C/140°C Fan) and sift almond flour and confectioners’ sugar together into a bowl.
- Whip egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Slowly add granulated sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
- Fold in dry ingredients and food colouring until the batter flows smoothly.
- Pipe small rounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Let rest until dry to the touch.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool completely before filling with raspberry preserves.
(Pro Tip: These can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container!)
Craving more? Explore the full recipe here.
Cocktail: Espresso Martini
If you want to add an extra touch of indulgence to your Valentine’s Day meal idea, an Espresso Martini is the perfect after-dinner drink. This smooth and slightly sweet cocktail is the ideal way to round out your meal, offering a refined, luxurious finish – perfect for keeping the night going.
Ingredients:
- 25ml vodka
- 25ml coffee liqueur
- 25ml espresso coffee
- Small handful of ice cubes
- 3 coffee beans, to garnish
Method:
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously, then strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans for a sophisticated touch.
Like this recipe? Find out more here.
Final Thoughts
Creating a romantic 3-course meal at home allows you to celebrate love with a personal touch. These Valentine’s Day recipes strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, making them a delightful yet mindful way to enjoy the occasion. Whether you’re sharing the evening with a loved one or simply enjoying a special moment by yourself, this menu will help you craft a memorable and flavourful experience.