February 14th – Valentine’s Day. Some people may refer to it as a Hallmark card holiday and truthfully, in the past, I did as well. All of that ended when a handsome man showed me what a romantic Valentine’s Day is all about.
And like most holidays Valentine’s Day is rich in history and extends back centuries resonating with people of all ages and cultures. It is more than chocolate and flowers. Valentine’s Day is a reminder of the power of love.
Photo: Donna Sanders - Trevi Fountain Rome, Italy
Valentines Day started in Rome and was a festival honoring Lupercus, the god of fertility, and Juno, the goddess of women and marriage. As Christianity spread the holiday became associated with St. Valentine, a Christian martyr believed to have defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for young soldiers. Over time, St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers.
Photo: Brad Ricciardi - Curtis and Susan snuggling.
But what about today? In this fast paced and chaotic world Valentine’s Day gives us a moment to pause, reflect and express our love and appreciation for our partners, family, friends and in some circumstances pets. It gives us a reminder that love has the power to unite us. Don’t you wish everyone felt that way?
We have all heard the saying, “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach” and Valentine’s Day is no exception. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to create that intimate meal, atmosphere and personnel connection.
Where The Food Comes From has gathered recipes that may spark the romance in you. So, grab your favorite partner and head to the kitchen to create the perfect meal.
Photo: Donna Sanders
Without sounding cliché champagne is considered to be the beverage for romance. My choice is the one with the orange label– Veuve Clicquot, The Grande Dame. This is the champagne Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman are sipping in Casablanca! Be prepared to have two bottles ready to prepare your main course. You can spend quite a bit more than the $50 this fetches, but you’ll never have finer.
Oysters have a rich and somewhat romantic history, often associated with luxury, love, and aphrodisiac qualities. What can be a more perfect appetizer? If you don’t know how to shuck an oyster check out It’s The Food Of Love – But How On Earth Do You Shuck An Oyster?
Start with Roasted Oysters On The Half Shell With Dijon Cream Fraiche.
How about a palate cleanse between courses? Try Cucumber Lime Sorbet to reinvigorate your taste buds.
From All Of Us At Where The Food Comes From Have A Happy And Romantic Valentine’s Day!
