13 Ideas for Romantic Meals

As you dip the roasted beets into this delicate fondue, it will gradually turn pink. The cheese stays molten and creamy for a long time—a fondue breakthrough, as far as we’re concerned! When the fondue cools, it has the texture of cream cheese; post–Valentine’s Day, spread it on toast as a delicious snack.

Recipe: Blushing Cheese Dip

Crunchy bacon and creamy avocado are a perfect match in this easy appetizer. Why not serve it up for a sexy Valentine’s Day midnight snack?

Recipe: Avocados with Warm Bacon Parsley Vinaigrette

Artichokes are the perfect way to start any romantic meal. Purchased mayonnaise makes this a breeze to prepare. You can make this the day ahead and keep everything chilled until ready to serve.

Recipe: Artichokes with Garlic-Thyme Mayonnaise

Seattle chef Rachel Yang reinvents the classic peppercorn steak with a not-too-hot Sichuan peppercorn rub that produces a pleasant tingly sensation in the mouth. With the zesty kale slaw, it adds zaps of excitement to a romantic dinner.

Recipe: Sichuan Peppercorn Filet Mignon with Crisp Mushrooms and Kale Slaw

You don’t need beef to make a meal romantic. Juicy, jammy figs combined with fresh oregano and chicken thighs create the perfect union of sweet and savory in this easy dish that uses just one pan.

Recipe: Chicken and Roasted Figs

If any ocean creature can be said to have a cult following, it’s sea urchin (uni). Its roe, the edible part, has a briny, sweet taste. When mixed with hot pasta, the roe melts and creates a luscious sauce, as in this recipe based on one from sea-urchin diver Peter Halmay. California produces most of the American sea-urchin supply; look for the top grade, called California Gold, or B-grade California Premium, which has a slightly softer texture. The roe is extremely perishable, so use it as soon as possible.

Recipe: Sea Urchin Linguini (Ricci del Mar Linguini)

Prepare all your ingredients before you heat up your frying pan or wok. Then dazzle your sweetheart by getting this sweet and juicy stir-fry on the table in no time!

Recipe: Asparagus Shrimp Stir-Fry

Sunset readers love this brightly colored and easy-to-make risotto. Saffron makes it extra special. Serve it with Spice-Crusted Scallops or shrimp quickly sautéed with a little olive oil and garlic.

Recipe: Saffron and Preserved Lemon Risotto

Legend has it that Cleopatra considered saffron an aphrodisiac and bathed in it before her encounters with men. We prefer to use this exotic spice in cooking because it brings color and flavor to dishes like this one. The couscous comes together quickly and is great served along side grilled or roasted chicken or beef. You can also top it with any combination of oven-roasted vegetables and serve as a vegetarian main dish.

Recipe: Saffron Couscous

Spoil your special someone with this decadent, sensuous brunch dish.

Video: How to Make Stuffed French Toast

This sensual dessert offers intriguing flavor combinations and textures that range from cloudlike to crunchy.

Recipe: Fudge Cakes with Jasmine Tea Whipped Cream

If you’re looking for a light ending to your romantic meal, look no further than this simple sherbet recipe. With only three ingredients, it can be easily made any time you have a craving for something sweet and chocolatey.

Recipe: Chocolate Sherbet

Cap off your romantic meal with this decadent, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. They bake from frozen, which means you can do the prep ahead of time, bake them while you dine, and enjoy them warm from the oven.

Recipe: Molten Chocolate Mousse Cups