Valentine's feast

Valentine's Day is kind of silly and if you don't have someone it can be downright annoying. Have you ever wanted to wear black and drive over a tacky box of cheap chocolates in protest? All I have to say is GO FOR IT, if that is where you are at.

If you do feel inclined to cook something special for a friend or loved one, then I suggest some of my favorite special occasion recipes that are surprisingly easy. Go to Wine Authorities and ask Craig or Seth to suggest wine pairings according to your taste and budget.

Appetizer:
Cheese and crackers

First course:
Belgian endive, leaves separated and sprinkled with crumbled roquefort cheese and a white wine vinegar and olive oil vinaigrette (1 part vinegar, 3 parts oil)
or
Smoked trout served on top of granny smith apple slices garnished with watercress (sprinkle with lemon juice)

Main course:
Individual beef wellingtons
Roasted brussels sprouts
Mashed potatoes
or
Asparagus risotto (extravagant in February, I know, but it's a good vegetarian option)

Dessert:
Chocolate molten cakes
or
Vanilla ice cream with homemade chocolate sauce

If you are male, you might consider some lovely flower other than red roses: orchids, birds of paradise, and lilies are nice options. You might choose a color to coordinate with her living room or bedroom colors. Also, do not hand a lady a bunch of flowers wrapped in plastic. Remove the plastic, dry the stems, and tie a ribbon around them (wrap ribbon around the bunch several times then tie into a bow...if you can tie shoes, you can do this). The florist should be able to give you some ribbon. Don't forget to tell your sweetie that you are the luckiest man alive.