How-to Create a Romantic Meal

Romantic, special meals are a wonderful way to show your significant other that you care enough to do something special for them. They also can reveal that you pay attention to their likes and dislikes, wants, and needs. I've created a lot of romantic meals for work and pleasure, and I know there's no one certain menu or set way to create the proper ambience. However there are some basics that can help anyone show their significant other that love is still in the air.

First of all, know your audience. If you're the main cook then you probably know what your SO's favorite foods. If you're not the cook of the house think about the kinds of things your SO cooks and likes to prepare. Is he/she a meat and potatoes person, a seafood lover, a bread and cheese hound, or perhaps they prefer light fare such as layered salads or lots of vegetables? If they're on a special diet this should be taken into consideration because you don't want them to feel guilty or ill eating your wonderful effort. This will help you prepare a menu that will be much appreciated. You should also think about preparing something that is not too involved so you won't have to be cooking all night instead of enjoying each other. For example, if he/she loves red meat, asparagus and chocolate you'll have a strong menu base. Consider a starter of bruschetta topped with roasted peppers and goat cheese, followed by grilled filet mingnon au poivre with a light Dijon sauce, roasted lemon garlic asparagus, and a chocolate mousse or pieces of dark chocolate to feed each other.

Next think about your venue. A romantic meal doesn't have to be enjoyed just in a dimly lit room with candlelight, although that is nice. There are other options to consider. For example, setting up your outdoor patio with a nice linen cloth and napkins and a few candles and accessories is very romantic. So is eating picnic style on a large, comfortable blanket in your own back yard. If you do that make sure you have a couple of things on hand to stabilize wine or drinking glasses. If it's too hot or cold outside you can spread the picnic blanket in your living room and light candles and a fire, if you have one. Wherever you eat don't go overboard on the table setting. A few simple touches such as a flower arrangement, candles and nice linens will create a warm and loving feeling. Perhaps you can place a rose or other flower across your partner's table setting as a special offering.

It's always nice to have one simple yet delicious appetizer and a cocktail or wine in the beginning. This allows you both to talk, catch up from the day, and mellow into the evening. If you don't drink alcohol then make a special non-alcoholic cocktail, such as a virgin Cosmo with cranberry juice, lime juice, and a wedge of lime. Bruschetta, dips, and spreads are great appetizers but sometimes it's just as nice to offer a couple of cheeses, olives and cured meats already arranged on plates, or a quick shrimp cocktail.

You should serve both plates for the main meal at once and sit down together. Create a special presentation with garnishes and layer your food for some height. If you have a sauce drizzle it over the food and around the edge of the dish. Pour his/her wine or drink and treat them with a little extra-special service. Make a romantic toast and take his/her hand as you speak. Eat slowly and ask questions that you might not normally ask in a normal day. After you finish eating don't leave the table right away, pour some more wine and keep chatting. Dessert can wait a little bit longer. Eventually ask your SO if they're ready for dessert and serve it up. Make it look special in it's serving dish and add a garnish; whether it's something baked, a mousse or a parfait, or just some chocolates and fresh fruit.

Dessert might be a good time to give a small offering or present. It doesn't have to be expensive; it could be a card or something that reminds you of your lover. Just think about him/her's personality and the right thing will come to mind.

Creating a romantic meal just takes a little thought and effort about the kind of person your lover is and the things they like and enjoy doing. If you can't cook you can always assemble ingredients, such as bread, cheese, tomatoes, meat, etc., and present them in a beautiful manner. No matter what you decide to put on the menu, if you follow this advice you will be more than satisfied with the results.