The EastCoaster

By: Brianna Powers

Whether you’re spending February 14th with a significant other, or your best friends, or
treating yourself to a solo night, there’s no better way to celebrate love than with homemade food. From a delicious pasta dish to easy desserts, these recipes will bring joy to your Valentine’s Day.

Dinner Recipes:
Nothing says love like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta. 

• Store bought pasta: Barilla’s heart-shaped pasta or the Eat Your Heart Out Pasta brand (available on Amazon) make for a charming Valentine’s Day dinner. 
• Sauce options: Try a creamy pink vodka sauce by sautéing garlic in olive oil, adding crushed tomatoes, a splash of vodka, and heavy cream. Toss in your heart-shaped pasta, top with parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil for a meal that looks as good as it tastes.
•  Wine: Pair with a glass of rosé or sparkling water for the full experience—I suggest Poppi Raspberry Rose for a non-alcoholic option. 

Quick Baking Options:

If you’re short on time but want something homemade, boxed cakes, brownies, and
cookie mixes are your best friends. 

*If you are gluten-free, brands like King Arthur, Simple Mills, and Betty Crocker all offer gluten-free boxed options!*

• What to add to your boxed cake mix: Elevate a simple box of chocolate cake mix by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the flavor or swirl in raspberry jam before baking for a stronger fruit flavor. 
• What to add to your brownies: Brownies can be made extra decadent with a sprinkle of sea salt and caramel drizzle. 
• What to add to your cookies: press a heart-shaped chocolate candy into each one right after they come out of the oven for an extra festive touch. 
• Easy strawberry shortcake recipe: layer fluffy biscuits (store-bought or homemade) with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a simple but elegant treat.
  • If you are looking to make your own whipped cream, simply combine 1 cup of heavy cream with two tablespoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  • After combining those ingredients into a medium-sized bowl use either a handheld or stand mixer with a whisk attachment, to combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed.
  • This should take about 3–4 minutes and then refrigerator until it is to a desired texture!
• Chocolate Fondue: Purchase Target’s $15 chocolate fondue kit and dip strawberries, marshmallows, or even shortcake bites into warm, melted chocolate. It’s an interactive and fun way to round out a delicious meal.

With just a few simple upgrades, these easy treats will taste like they came straight from a bakery. 

No matter how you celebrate, these recipes are guaranteed to add extra love to your
Valentine’s Day. So, light some candles, put on your favorite music, and enjoy a meal made with love!

Photo Credit: Woman Magazine