Cooking with Love: Delightful Recipes for a Local Valentine’s Day Dinner

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to create a special meal for the ones you love—and there’s no better way to celebrate than by crafting a dinner using fresh, local ingredients. 

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening for two or a cozy family gathering, these recipes will add a touch of love to your table. From a rich and creamy starter to a show-stopping main course and a decadent dessert, this menu is designed to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Starter: Creamy Winter Greens & Herb Dip

Kick off your meal with a warm and satisfying appetizer that features seasonal greens like spinach and Swiss chard. This dip pairs perfectly with local bread from Luna Baking Co. or fresh-cut vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup Swiss chard, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the spinach and Swiss chard in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil until wilted.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked greens with cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic, and Parmesan.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and transfer to a baking dish.
4. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Serve warm with toasted bread or pita chips for dipping.

Main Course: Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken with Root Vegetables

A locally sourced whole chicken, roasted to perfection, is the star of this Valentine’s Day meal. Paired with hearty root vegetables, it’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 small red onion, quartered

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with the vegetables. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 1.5-2 hours, basting occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Dessert: Pecan Praline Bread Pudding

For a sweet finish with Southern charm, this pecan praline bread pudding combines rich custard and caramelized pecans for a dessert that feels indulgent and heartfelt.

If you’re looking for an easier, but just as delicious dessert option, visit Farmview Market and shop various housemade desserts from our Bake Shop. 

Ingredients:

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works best)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Add the bread cubes and stir until fully soaked.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the bread pudding.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and bubbling.

Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special touch.

Set the Mood with Local Favorites

Pair your meal with locally sourced bread, cheeses, or even fresh flowers to complete the evening. By supporting local farmers and artisans, you’re not only creating a delicious meal but also showing love to your community.

This Valentine’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and make your kitchen the heart of the celebration. With these recipes and a little extra care, you’ll have a dinner that speaks volumes of love.