It feels like the holidays just wrapped up, but it’s already time to start thinking about Valentine’s Day! Whether you and your loved one make a big deal about the holiday or prefer a more low-key celebration, there are things you can do to make it extra special this year. That means doing something a little different than the usual card and box of chocolates.
Rather than going out to eat, why not prepare a gourmet dinner at home? Grilling is a great way to ensure your food is flavorful, juicy, and packs a punch. And your partner will love all the thought you put into the meal! Read on for some great recipe tips, tricks, and ideas. Let’s get grilling!
Plan a Romantic Menu
First, consider the menu. What types of foods do you and your partner love? Do you splurge on a fancy seafood feast at your favorite restaurant, or is a barbecue platter with homemade cornbread more your style? No matter what type of food you love, chances are you’ll be able to adapt the recipe to cook it on the grill.
It’s also helpful to choose dishes that you can partially prepare ahead of time. That way, you won’t be rushing around on Valentine’s Day trying to get everything done. It’ll help the evening go smoothly, so you and your loved one can enjoy spending time together.
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Here’s a recipe that’ll truly stick to your ribs: Big Bold Beefy BBQ Bones. The intense flavor of these ribs comes from your favorite BBQ rub, bold beef barbecue sauce, and something called a smoker box. It allows you to impart rich, smoky flavors into whatever you’re grilling. These ribs are cooked over indirect heat for hours, resulting in fall-off-the-bone goodness in every bite |
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Why not try a little surf and turf? This East Coast/West Coast Grilled Lobster Tail with Baja Butter goes great with those ribs, or even a nice, juicy steak. Simple seasoning of sea salt, olive oil, and finely ground black pepper really lets the lobster’s fresh flavor shine. The homemade Baja Butter gives things a zesty kick with flavors of garlic, Fresno chile, and citrus. You’ll think this lobster came from a five-star restaurant by the time you’re finished! |
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Speaking of a chef quality meal, consider trying these Beef Tenderloin Steaks with Blue Cheese Topping. Cooked to a buttery medium rare or medium, garlic, fresh parsley, and some salt truly complement the flavors of these delicate tenderloins. The showstopper is the blue cheese topping, which includes cream cheese and yogurt to give it some ooey gooey goodness. |
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If chicken is your grilling go-to, it’s time to kick things up. Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Butter combines some fresh flavors, including garlic, cilantro, and lime. Pair it with some vegetables like blistered green beans and grilled corn, and you’re sure to have a hit! |
Don’t forget the details! What’s a gourmet meal without the perfect wine pairing From Cabernet to Sauvignon Blanc, you’ll be able to find some great options for you and your partner to enjoy with dinner. For an added twist, you can also print out menus just like a real, formal restaurant.
Create Some Cozy Ambiance
Ambiance is everything when it comes to setting the scene for a romantic dinner. Don’t forget a nice tablecloth and some candles! Soft music will help you both relax and enjoy each other’s company. Or, come up with a playlist of your favorite tunes. You can also consider having your meal outside if temperatures happen to be milder. Set up a propane-powered fire pit or patio heater to help ward off the winter chill. You can even repurpose some of those holiday lights you just took down. Simply line your dining area with those twinkling little bulbs for some added magic
Don’t Forget Dessert!
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What’s a fancy dinner without a little dessert? No need to clean up and head into the kitchen. You can grill your dessert, too! Creamy Chocolate Covered Strawberries may be just what you need after a decadent meal. They’re light yet satisfying in the same bite. This version calls for both white and milk chocolate chips, along with mascarpone cheese. Indulgent? Yes. Easy to make? Also, yes. |
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If pies are more your thing, this Berry Crumble may be just the ticket. The nutty, buttery crumble on top acts as the “crust” and helps to tie the whole dish together. The great thing about this recipe is that it is fully customizable. You get to choose your favorite berries, so if you don’t like blueberries, leave them out! |
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If you’re feeling a little more ambitious, try this Red Wine Poached Pear Galette. There is some prep work involved, but the result is truly breathtaking. A galette is sort of like a free-form pie, so the finished dish is rustic yet artsy. The flavors are rich, earthy, and decadent – the perfect end to the perfect meal. |
Be Prepared
We have some final thoughts as you get ready to plan your romantic Valentine’s Day meal. When you’re trying to put together a gourmet-grade meal, there is no such thing as overplanning. In addition to shopping for your ingredients, but sure you have all the tools you need, like pizza stones or smoker boxes, to make each dish.
Also, be sure to clean your grill before you start cooking. And don’t forget to pick up a fresh, ready-to-grill Blue Rhino! Save yourself a trip to the store by clicking here to see if Home Delivery is available in your area. Or, visit one of the thousands of retail locations that carry Blue Rhino propane across the country. Click here to use our handy propane finder.
Finally, when it comes time to grill, go into it with the right mindset. Remember why you’re going to all this effort – it’s because you want to show your special someone how much you love them! So even if your chicken gets a little too charred, or your knife skills aren’t quite as professional as they could be, keep in mind that it’s the thought that counts. Any time spent together is worth it. Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone!