Make a meal of Valentine’s Day at home
Create special evening… even if you are just unboxing a takeaway
Dine at home in style this Valentine’s Day. With a few tricks and the right tableware you can create a little at-home romance, whether you’re sharing the night together, Zooming or treating yourself. Start by deciding on a theme for your table, finding inspiration from the food your planning to eat. Whether it’s steak frites or a full-on Indian banquet, bring in a few touches from your favourite restaurant.
Creating an atmosphere Cupid would be proud of doesn’t stop at the table; soft lighting, candles and music will all help transport you from your dining table to a much more romantic destination. And don't forget to dress up for the occasion.
Arrange pre-dinner drinks
Enjoy a glass of fizz, make a cocktail or two, or sit back with a G&T. Set a time for your Valentine’s evening to begin and be on time for your other half, serve drinks from a tray or bar trolley. Recreate past Valentine’s Day evenings – minus having to book months in advance, a set menu of only two options, neither of which you actually want and having to wait hours for a taxi home – at least this year, things are a little more fluid. Cheers!
Serve in style
Rather than just dishing up onto plates, present food in serving dishes – it will add to the sense of occasion. Look for small dip bowls, platters and jugs, which work with your menu plan. Decant chutneys and sides, pour sauces into jugs and pile up veggies in serving dishes.
If you’re recreating an à la carte vibe, then white tableware and simple glassware is a must, finished with crisp napkins. Cover up your homeschooling/working from home dining table with a tablecloth and add a vase of fresh blooms and a few candles or tealights.
Looking to add more spice to your evening? Mix and match bright tableware and linens for a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Or if you’re sharing Valentine‘s Day with your household, then serve fill-your-boots pasta in a large serving bowl, with fresh bread and antipasta on rustic wooden boards.
However you are celebrating lockdown love, make it a meal to remember.
