Any Inexpensive But Nice Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas?

[disneyhand]

I've been out to dinner many times in the past on valentines day and decided that paying more, being rushed, needing reservations, crowds just wasn't my favorite. So when our kids were younger, we started staying home. It became a favorite tradition for us. Our son has moved away now and has a girlfriend, so he won't be here this year, but I'm hoping my daughter who is currently single will want to hang with the parents for old times sake.

We all plan the menu. It's usually a bbq'd marinated tri-tip or steaks, with a tasty but easy potato and a vegie or salad. Something chocolate for dessert. Everything needs to be quick and easy, yet tasty. I don't want to be in the kitchen all night.

But the evening really is about presentation. My daughter and I liked to set the table extra special. Tablecloth and candles. Sometimes glittery confetti and chocolates strewn on top. The kids were allowed to have pink soda in fancy glasses. Used the nice dishes. A card and really small wrapped something at each place setting. This year we'll probably watch a movie or play a game after dinner. I don't think you have to spend alot to make it a special evening.

PS this year's potato recipe and chocolate dessert will be from thepioneerwoman.com. Crashed potatoes and molten chocolate cake, yum!

 

[shortbun]

Check your grocery circulars. This week we have angus t-bones for $4.99 a pound, stawberries on sale(get some dipping chocolate!) and potatoes(baked are always great!) are $5 a bag. Great dinner for $15!!!!! We already have a nice bottle of red from the holidays.

Hey, if you're really broke, a homemade casserole of mac and cheese with salad in a bag and a two litre of beer sounds good to me. lol!