As some of you might remember, I don’t always like dining out on Valentine’s Day. I think it’s one of the most crowed day of the year at any restaurant. So, I've always prepared Valentine’s day dinner at home. I think it’s a sweet and warm gesture to take the time and prepare something delectable for our significant others, don’t you agree? Here’s what’s on the menu: Raw oysters (picture above), serve with a splash of lemon juice and hot sauce. To ensure freshness, I bought the oysters in their shells and planned to open them on my own when I got home. Ahem…after 30 minutes, a curved butter knife, a few beat-up kitchen towels, and a cracked shell, here we have 6 super fresh oysters chilling on a bed of ice. I say it’s not bad at all, for someone opening oysters for the very first time. But I think I’ll leave that to the experts next time around.
Up next, we have a mixed green salad and avocado, served with Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. In the dressing, I used both Dijon and whole grain mustard this time. I love serving salad. It’s simple and easy to put together. Plus, you can basically put any ingredients you like along with your favorite dressing. If you haven’t done so, you should check out this Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. It’s always been my favorite.
For the entrée, I have prepared this gorgeous black pepper crusted filet mignon, served with blue cheese cream sauce and chives, mushrooms stuffed scallops and homemade French fries. Oh my, what a feast!
For dessert, you can check out the latest Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Pomegranate Lemon Gelée recipe, these Strawberry Sweetheart Macaron (picture above) or these Nutella Macarons (picture below). These desserts will ensure a sweet ending to any meal. What’s on your Valentine’s day menu? Are you planning to cook at home or to rather dine out? I would love to hear from you.
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Can I skip to the macaroons and eat that??
ReplyDeleteThank you dear. Dessert first? I don't see why not. :)
Deleteheheee... I'm the greedy one. I love to have all of these for my Valentine's Day :D
ReplyDeleteYes, I can't wait to make them again. So good.
DeleteYour macarons are perfect and the filet mignon (with the yummy side dishes) has me drooling!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sue. Yes, those are some yummy macarons. :) I'm experimenting some new flavors all the time.
DeleteHi Amy, what a lovely menu! Your macarons and panna cotta are especially tempting. I'm having fun checking your beautiful blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Hannah. I'm glad you stopped by and left me a comment. Hope you'll be back soon again.
DeleteWhat a great feast! I always find opening oysters a pain, too (not enough practice). Sometimes I find using one of those old-fashioned "church key" beer or soda openers useful (stick the pointed end of it into the oyster's hinge, and attack it from there). Anyway, wonderful meal - thanks for the ideas!
ReplyDeleteNice...Thanks for the tip in opening oysters. Yes, I need to practice more! That is, if I really want to go through it again the next time. :P The best thing about opening them at home is that I can have all those fresh oyster juice inside the shell.
DeleteA sweet and wonderful menu for V-day! These macaron hearts are perfect.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Angie. Glad you like my menu. :)
DeleteI honestly prefer to eat this beautiful homemade dishes than going to eat out! Even macarons are coming to the course. I cannot refuse that. :) Your black pepper crusted filet mignon looks perfect! Can I book for two please? :)
ReplyDeleteGreat menu
DeleteMost definitely, Nami. Would love you have you as my guest someday. :) I'll make you some macarons to take home for sure.
DeleteWOW on the Filet Mignon and the Heart-Shaped macarons!
ReplyDeleteThank you my friend. Glad you like them. :)
DeleteChefs will readily admit that Valentine's Day is not the best night to dine. It's when restaurants are slammed with so much business that they often have to offer a prix fixe that is easy to prepare, but not necessarily the best, most innovative dishes they do.To really experience a restaurant at its best, definitely pick another night to visit.
ReplyDeleteNice to know that. Yes, never good to visit a restaurant when they are the most packed. :) Thanks for the tips.
DeleteThese are great ideas!! Those heart shaped macaroons are so cute!
ReplyDeleteHi Amy, awesome meal, look so delectable. Love the heart shape mac, so sweet looking. Best regards.
ReplyDeleteAmy, this is a beautiful post. I feel the same way about dining out on Valentine's Day. So much better within your own surroundings. Your meal looks divine. Perfect!!
ReplyDelete