Italian Feast of St. Valentine

Its time to start planning Valentine’s Day dinner. You could always make reservations to eat out, but why not be a little more creative? No matter if you are inviting couples over to share a special evening or dining along with your significant other, I have a great theme for you…the Italian Feast of St. Valentine.

Start by setting the table with a red and white checkerboard tablecloth. A centerpiece down the center of the table consisting of squatty Chianti bottles, thin bread sticks in tall tumblers and a few red globe-shaped candles bring back memories of nights out at an old-fashioned Italian restaurant. Set the table with plates for the main course and serve the food family style. For my party, I found some dinner plates with an olive boarder.

As the guests arrive, the evening begins with serving a mini appetizer buffet of tomato and mozzarella on crostini with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and some delicious stuffed mushrooms. When everyone is seated, whip up a classic Caesar salad. Plate up in the kitchen and use the dinner plate as a charger for the first course. Once everyone is done, bring on the food! Pass around large platters of easy-to-make chicken Parmesan, pasta with a spicy sauce and sauteed broccoli and garlic. Pick up some cannoli from the bakery to round out the meal with a sweet treat.