If you are like me, this can be tricky. I’ve been with my Hubby for 8 ½ blissful years. We have just about everything we want (with the exception of the yacht) or can afford at this point in time (not like we can afford a yacht).
So what do you do?
Valentine’s Day often becomes lost in the married life. “It’s just another day.” we often say.
Well, I am here to revitalize our old, married butts.
Once upon a time, butterflies filled our bellies every February 14th.
It started in grade school with who would get the most Scooby Doo V Day notes in our doily donned V Day, red construction paper mail boxes. Then, High School brought forth, single stemmed roses stuck in our locker vents. College brought candle lit dinners of Ramen noddles and hand picked (stolen from the Agriculture dept.) daisies.
Valentine’s Day was special and was far from “just another day.”
So, I have decided to do something really special for my Hubby this V Day. Of course, I will not divulge my plan just yet, because, well, he reads this blog daily, but I will share a few ideas with you.
I’ve always thought making your own gourmet Dinner was far more romantic than waiting for a table at a crowded restaurant with little to no intimacy. So, I set out to see where Tampa was making reservations and hands down, Bern’s was the big winner.
I’ve complied the most popular recipes from Bern’s. Feel free to pick and choose.
Is it original? No, but it never fails to please. Go to the dollar store, buy lots and lots of candles, set them all through the house, put iTunes on to your favorite music, open a bottle of wine, and enjoy each other’s company.
A lot of these recipes can be made ahead of time, so that you are not stuck in the kitchen when you should be in the Dining room getting’ your lovin’ on.
Appetizer:
Tuna Tartare (Cox’s Seafood has the freshest tuna you will find in Tampa)This is the BEST tartare recipe from a restuarnt in San Fran called Aqua.
This can be made a few hours ahead of serving.
Fois Gras with Pineapple and Pistachios (The Outdoor Kitchen Store carries foie gras)
The Pineapple compote and toast points can be made a day ahead. The Fois Gras should be made just before serving.
Soup:
Asparagus Vichyssoise
Can be made a day ahead of time.
Lobster Bisque
Can be made a day ahead of time.
Entrée:
Chateaubriand
This should be made just before serving.
Chicken “Bern” Style
Prepare just before serving. I recommend to use fresh Crimini instead of Button mushrooms. For the dried, use Chantrelles. Fresh Market has them right now.
Dessert:
Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee
Can be prepared the day before. Caramelize the sugar just before serving. Do it at the table!
Chocolate Cheese Pie
Can be a day ahead of time.
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