9 Perfect V-Day Dishes

While the way to a man’s heart may not actually be through his stomach, we can confirm that you will earn major points if you choose to blow off the cheesy, overpriced prix-fixes this Valentine’s Day and instead cook at home (which we frankly believe is more romantic, anyway). And if you’re celebrating alone this year, don’t let that prevent you from trying out some of our suggested recipes -- and, of course, relishing in the fact that you can keep the whole batch of Oreo truffles to yourself.

Starters

Simple Salad with Apples, Walnuts, and Brie -- this tasty salad is the perfect V-Day dish -- elegant but easy, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen for hours.

Grilled Oysters -- while we personally find oysters disgusting, everyone says they’re an aphrodisiac, no? It’s certainly worth a try.

Bruschetta with Tomatoes, Red Onions, and Basil -- bruschetta just feels so classy to us, and basil is another purported aphrodisiac. Don’t overdo it on the onions.

Entrees

Engagement Chicken -- this recipe is “famous” for allegedly compelling boyfriends to propose, and while we’ve yet to see any statistics backing up this lofty claim, it couldn’t hurt.

Beef Meatloaf in a Bacon Blanket -- this dish is so rich and manly that we bet it will work even better than the engagement chicken. (You, however, should go easy on this unless your after-dinner plans involve wearing fat pants and falling asleep on the couch.)

Spaghetti and Meatballs -- classic romantic fare, thanks to Lady and the Tramp. (And if you totally flake on this and instead buy frozen meatballs and canned spaghetti sauce, just make sure he’s had plenty of wine before you serve it.)

Desserts

10-minute Bananas Foster -- bananas are yet another food item rumored to have aphrodisiac powers (for obvious reasons).

Easy Oreo Truffles -- Oreos and truffles is probably the most perfect coupling since Romeo and Juliet (and you and your man, of course). These can be prepared the day before, so they are both convenient and delicious.

Strawberry and Honey Cream Tart -- maybe it’s a little nerdy to serve a red dessert on Valentine’s Day, but we stopped being cool around our men so long ago that we’re okay with that.