Throughout the next several days until the 14th, I will write about how you can celebrate Valentines Day – locally, indulgently, inexpensively, & romantically! Enjoy – and celebrate love!

What is more romantic than a candle light dinner for two? And what is more en vogue (recession proof!) than enjoying the romantic dinner in the comfort of your own home!?

For those of you lovebirds who will enjoy a dinner in, enjoy this yummy menu over candlelight. Treat your valentine to this simple, delicious and easy to clean up, leaving more time for the two of you to celebrate love!

Spaghetti with Real Simple Quick Meat Sauce

This yummy dish is certain to satisfy!

1. Boil spaghetti noodles (white or whole grain) per package’s instructions.

2. Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 large onion, chopped, 2 garlic cloves, chopped, and 2 carrots, also chopped. Stir 8-10 minutes, until soft.

3. Turn up the heat :) to medium-high and add 3/4 lb. ground beef or turkey, salt and pepper to taste. Cook the ground beef until there is no more pink, 4-5 minutes. Add 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. For an added bonus, stir in 1/2 c. fresh, chopped flat-leaf parsley.

4. Serve this yummy dish with grated Parmesan or shredded Mozzarella cheese.

{ Recipe at realsimple.com by Katie Merker, April 2009 }

Caprese Salad

So Refreshing and Good!

1. Layer tomato slices, mozzarella rounds, and fresh basil leaves on a plate.

2. Drizzle with balsamic vinegarette and salt and pepper.

Real Simple Parmesan Twists

You will want to eat more than one!

1. Heat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut thawed package of puff pastry into 24 strips and transfer to two baking sheets.

2. Brush one lightly beaten egg over all of the strips.

3. Twist strips and then sprinkle with shredded Parmesan (Use whatever you have on hand; I used mozzarella and it was wonderful!) and poppy seeds.

4. Bake 12-15 minutes. The baking time will determine if the pastry is just cooked through or gets crispy. Serve hot or at room temperature.

{ Recipe at realsimple.com, December 2006 }

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

You and your lovebird can enjoy making these together!

1. Wash and dry strawberries.

2. Melt chopped chocolate (dark, milk, and or white) in a double boiler.

3. Dip strawberries into chocolate and lay on wax paper covered baking sheet. Decorate chocolate dipped strawberries with sprinkles, icing, or whipped cream.

Sparkling Champagne or Sparkling Apple Cider

A Perfect Pairing with Strawberries

Toast your love with a glass of something sparkling to sip!

{ Photograph courtesy of RealSimple.com }

To create an intimate setting, prepare your table with your favorite fresh flowers and small, lit candles. Dim the lights, fold linen napkins, and serve the satisfying dinner course by course. You and your love are sure to adore this yummy meal **

CLiCK to Learn How to Create This Tablescape