15 romantic Valentine’s Day dinner ideas for a perfect night in, including appetizers, main courses, desserts, and tips for setting the mood all inspired by Martha Stewart, Matty Matheson, and Giata De Laurentiis.
Valentine’s Day dinner is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to bring people together and celebrate the loved ones in your life. Whether you’re cooking for your partner, hosting a cozy Galentine’s gathering, or creating a family-friendly dinner with the kids, sharing a thoughtful meal at home can be even more meaningful than dining out. There’s something special about crafting a meal from scratch, setting the table with care, and enjoying the moments of connection that a good meal inspires.
Valentine’s isn’t just about romance; it’s about celebrating all the relationships that fill your life with love and joy. Let’s explore some delicious dinner ideas to make your evening unforgettable, no matter who’s at the table!
Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to create a meal that feels extra special, whether you’re cooking for your partner, friends, or even just yourself. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best Valentine’s menus are those that combine a little indulgence with a personal touch.
To help inspire your evening, I’ve crafted three unique menus based on the cooking styles of Martha Stewart, Giada De Laurentiis, and Matty Matheson. Each one brings its own charm to the table—let’s dive in!
Martha Stewart-Inspired Menu: Timeless Elegance
Martha Stewart’s recipes are all about sophistication and simple luxury, making this menu perfect for a classic Valentine’s celebration.
- Appetizer: Oysters Rockefeller
Start with a timeless dish of oysters baked with butter, herbs, and breadcrumbs. It’s elegant and just the right amount of indulgent. - Main Course: Herb-Crusted Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce
Tender, juicy filet mignon coated in fresh herbs and served with a rich Béarnaise sauce for a perfectly refined main course. - Dessert: Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis
This silky, creamy dessert topped with a tart raspberry sauce is light yet luxurious—an ideal ending to your meal. - Signature Cocktail: Classic French 75
A sophisticated mix of champagne, gin, lemon juice, and sugar, this cocktail is as elegant as it is celebratory.
Giada De Laurentiis-Inspired Menu: Italian Romance
Giada’s cooking is perfect for those who want to infuse their Valentine’s dinner with warm, Mediterranean flavours and a bit of flair.
- Appetizer: Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella with Basil Oil
Creamy mozzarella wrapped in salty prosciutto and drizzled with fragrant basil oil—simple, flavorful, and quintessentially Italian. - Main Course: Lemon Risotto with Scallops
Creamy risotto infused with bright lemon zest and topped with perfectly seared scallops. It’s fresh, light, and incredibly romantic. - Dessert: Tiramisu for Two
Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream make this iconic Italian dessert a fitting choice for a romantic dinner. - Signature Cocktail: Limoncello Spritz
A refreshing blend of limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water, garnished with a lemon slice. It’s bright and bubbly, just like Giada’s style.
Matty Matheson-Inspired Menu: Bold and Heartfelt
Matty Matheson’s cooking is all about big flavours, comfort, and a little bit of chaos. This menu is perfect for those who want a fun, over-the-top Valentine’s feast.
- Appetizer: Crispy Fried Cheese Curds with Spicy Mayo
Golden, gooey cheese curds paired with a zippy dipping sauce—it’s indulgent, fun, and exactly what you’d expect from Matty. - Main Course: Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Tender, flavorful short ribs slow-cooked to perfection and served over buttery garlic mashed potatoes. It’s hearty and unforgettable. - Dessert: Chocolate Cake with Salted Caramel Sauce
A rich, moist chocolate cake drenched in homemade salted caramel sauce. Bold, decadent, and absolutely worth the effort. - Signature Cocktail: Bourbon Old Fashioned
A classic Old Fashioned with a Matty twist—extra orange peel and a hint of smoked maple syrup. Bold and memorable, just like the menu.
Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas With Family
Creating a Valentine’s Day dinner for the whole family is a wonderful way to celebrate love in all its forms. A family-friendly menu should strike the perfect balance between delicious, comforting, and fun, so everyone—from the littlest eaters to the grown-ups—feels included. Here’s a festive and easy-to-prepare menu that will bring everyone to the table with smiles.
- Appetizer: Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas
Get the kids involved with this fun, hands-on starter! Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to shape store-bought or homemade pizza dough, and let everyone add their favourite toppings. Bake until golden and bubbly for a customizable, kid-approved appetizer. - Main Course: Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti
This family favourite is both easy and satisfying. Breaded chicken cutlets are baked to crispy perfection, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, then served over a bed of spaghetti. It’s comforting, hearty, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. - Side Dish: Caprese Salad Skewers
For a fresh and colourful side, assemble skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for a simple yet elegant addition to your meal. - Dessert: Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
A classic Valentine’s treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Let the kids help dip strawberries into melted chocolate and decorate them with sprinkles or crushed nuts for a sweet and festive dessert. - Signature Drink: Sparkling Berry Lemonade
Make a festive drink the whole family can enjoy. Mix sparkling water with lemonade and a splash of berry juice, then serve with fresh berries and a lemon slice for garnish. For the adults, add a splash of prosecco to elevate the flavour.
Romantic Dinner For Two at Home
Valentine’s Day dinner ideas – A romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two is the perfect way to celebrate love in a cozy and intimate setting. This menu combines elegance with approachable recipes, making it easy to prepare while still feeling indulgent. Set the table with candles, pour some wine, and enjoy this thoughtful meal designed just for the two of you.
- Appetizer: Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Start the evening with tender, golden-brown scallops drizzled with a bright and velvety lemon butter sauce. This dish is light yet luxurious, setting the perfect tone for the rest of the meal. - Main Course: Herb-Crusted Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
A beautiful fillet of salmon coated in a fresh herb crust and baked to perfection pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus and baby potatoes. The dish is both flavorful and healthy, making it ideal for a romantic dinner. - Side Dish: Mixed Greens with Pomegranate and Goat Cheese
A simple salad of mixed greens topped with juicy pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese, and candied pecans adds freshness and a pop of colour to your meal. A light vinaigrette ties it all together. - Dessert: Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes
End the evening on a sweet note with individual molten lava cakes. The warm, gooey chocolate center and rich, decadent flavour are sure to impress—and satisfy any chocolate cravings. - Signature Cocktail: Raspberry Rosé Spritzer
Combine rosé wine with a splash of sparkling water and a hint of raspberry liqueur for a light and refreshing cocktail. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint to make it extra festive.
Valentine’s Day Recipes Easy: Ideas to Build Your Menu
Building the perfect Valentine’s Day menu doesn’t have to be complicated. I promise, that with a little inspiration and a few simple ideas, you can create a meal that feels special and completely your own.
Here, we’ll break down each course—from appetizers to desserts—and share thoughts and easy recipe ideas to help you design a menu that suits your celebration. For more Valenine’s Day dinner party Ideas click here!
Appetizers and Starters
Alright, let’s kick off the meal with some delicious starters. How about some easy bruschetta? You can make it extra special by cutting the toast into heart shapes – cute, right? If you’re feeling a bit fancy, oysters with champagne mignonette are always a hit. And for a simple yet elegant option, try some caprese skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze. Yum!
- Caprese Salad Skewers
- A simple yet elegant option made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves skewered together. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a romantic touch.
- Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts
- Creamy baked brie topped with honey, toasted almonds, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette for an indulgent start to your meal.
- Shrimp Cocktail
- Classic and easy! Serve chilled shrimp with a tangy homemade cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. It’s light, refreshing, and always a hit.
- Stuffed Mushrooms
- Button mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection.
- Heart-Shaped Puff Pastry Bites
- Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to create puff pastry appetizers filled with your choice of cheese, spinach, or even jam for a sweet twist. They’re fun, festive, and incredibly simple to make.
Main Course Ideas
For the main event, you’ve got some great options. Surf and turf is always a winner – imagine a perfectly cooked steak alongside a succulent lobster tail. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, why not make a homemade heart-shaped pizza together? It’s fun and delicious!
For a lighter option, salmon en papillote (that’s fancy talk for “in parchment”) with vegetables is lovely. And don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about our vegetarian friends – a creamy mushroom risotto is a fantastic meat-free option.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon
- A flavorful salmon fillet topped with fresh herbs and breadcrumbs, baked until golden. It’s elegant, healthy, and quick to prepare.
- Chicken Piccata
- Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a tangy lemon and caper sauce, served over pasta or rice for a satisfying and simple main dish.
- Steak with Garlic Butter
- A perfectly seared steak topped with a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve with roasted vegetables for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Vegetarian Lasagna Roll-Ups
- Individual lasagna rolls filled with ricotta, spinach, and marinara, then baked with melted cheese on top. Perfect for vegetarians or pasta lovers.
- Shrimp Scampi
- Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and white wine, served over linguine. It’s light yet decadent, making it ideal for a romantic dinner.
Pasta Dishes
Who doesn’t love pasta? You could go classic with spaghetti and meatballs – very Lady and the Tramp! Or if you’re feeling indulgent, how about some lobster ravioli in a rich cream sauce? For a pop of colour and flavour, a red wine and garlic shrimp linguine is always a crowd-pleaser.
Poultry Options
If you’re more of a poultry person, we’ve got you covered. Roasted Cornish game hens are perfect for two, or you could try a duck breast with a luscious cherry sauce. For something a bit simpler but no less delicious, how about a chicken breast stuffed with spinach and feta?
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
For our plant-based friends, there are plenty of delicious options. Eggplant parmesan stacks are a great choice – they look impressive and taste amazing. Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa and veggies are colourful and nutritious. And for a comfort food option, how about a vegan lasagna with creamy cashew cheese?
Side Dishes
Don’t forget about the sides! Some roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of parmesan is always lovely. Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic for a reason. And for a touch of sweetness, honey-glazed carrots are just perfect.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic for a comforting and flavorful side.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots
- Tender carrots roasted with a touch of honey and thyme, adding a sweet and savory element to your plate.
- Caprese Salad
- A simple mix of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
- Crisp asparagus spears roasted and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a quick, elegant side.
- Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
- A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons is always a crowd-pleaser.
Desserts
Now for everyone’s favourite part – dessert! You can’t go wrong with chocolate-covered strawberries. If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious, molten lava cakes are sure to impress. And for something cute and colorful, how about some red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting?
- Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes
- Individual chocolate cakes with a warm, gooey center. Easy to prepare ahead and bake just before serving.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
- A timeless Valentine’s treat that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. Add sprinkles or nuts for extra flair.
- Mini Cheesecake Cups
- Creamy cheesecake filling in a graham cracker crust, served in individual portions for a no-fuss dessert.
- Red Velvet Cupcakes
- Moist, rich cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a festive and colourful ending to your meal.
- Tiramisu in a Jar
- Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream in small jars for a romantic and portable dessert option.
Beverage Pairings
What’s a great meal without the perfect drink to go with it? Consider pairing each course with a complementary wine – maybe a crisp white with the fish, or a bold red with the steak. Don’t drink? No problem! There are plenty of delicious non-alcoholic options out there. And if you’re in the mood for something special, why not try mixing up some romantic cocktails? Here are some Valentine’s Day dinner ideas… cocktail edition!
- Raspberry Rosé Spritzer
- A refreshing mix of rosé wine, sparkling water, and raspberry liqueur, garnished with fresh berries for a romantic touch.
- Strawberry Mojito
- A twist on the classic mojito with muddled strawberries, mint, lime juice, and rum. It’s fruity, fresh, and perfectly festive.
- Classic French 75
- A champagne-based cocktail with gin, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar—light, bubbly, and elegant.
- Pomegranate Margarita
- A sweet-and-tart margarita made with pomegranate juice, tequila, and lime, rimmed with sugar or salt for a festive finish.
- Hot Chocolate with Baileys
- For a cozy twist, make rich hot chocolate and stir in a splash of Baileys Irish Cream. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Tips for a Successful Valentine’s Day Dinner
When it comes to Valentine’s Day dinner ideas, remember, that the key to a stress-free dinner is planning and preparation. Do as much as you can in advance so you’re not rushed on the day. Why not make it a fun activity and cook together as a couple? It’s a great way to spend time together.
And don’t forget to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences. The last thing you want is to prepare a beautiful meal that your partner can’t eat! With a little thought and preparation, you’re sure to have a wonderful, romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
The Best Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas!
This article has covered a wide range of Valentine’s Day dinner ideas, from appetizers to desserts, including options for various dietary preferences. Remember to personalize your dinner and focus on creating lasting memories with your loved one.
Leave a Comment