Food that says 'I love you'
There's no better way to show people you love them than by cooking something special. So why not rediscover your passion – in the kitchen!
Cooking with love
With a little imagination, even everyday meals can be special. So look out for some new recipes, throw a crisp cloth on the table, and polish the glassware and cutlery until it sparkles. Making just a little extra effort can make a whole lot of difference.
A romantic meal for two
Summon up the romantic spirit of Italy with a simple but tasty meal. For starters, tomatoes – also known as 'apples of love'. Peel and chop, mix with a little ground black pepper and olive oil, then serve on lightly toasted bread rubbed with garlic. Follow with fish or chicken baked in the oven with Italian herbs. Finish with fresh fruit, then coffee with almond biscotti – hard little Italian biscuits designed for dunking.
All the time in the world
"We have all the time in the world . . . for love," sang Louis Armstrong. While that might be true for A-list celebrities, most of us juggle commitments and personal time. One thing you can take your time about is eating. Bring back romance to the table - eating slowly while enjoying the food, the wine, each other . . .
A passion for health
There's no need to miss out if you're counting the calories. Sticking to a diet can be tough at times, so try turning it into a treat. Take time setting the table and creating an intimate mood. Serve a healthy salad but add a few unusual ingredients like asparagus, artichokes, basil, figs or pine nuts – all reputed to be aphrodisiacs!
Something to celebrate?
A cake can say "happy birthday", "congratulations" or simply "I love you" so why deny yourself the pleasure from time to time? If you're worried about keeping count of the calories in a slice, bite-sized fairy cakes are the perfect solution. Get creative and personalise them with your own decorations: candles, lollies and coloured icing. Try icing a letter on each cake to spell out a name or a special message.
