3 Romantic Recipes to Try this Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air, and what’s more thoughtful than cooking with your partner? Skip the hassle of finding a romantic restaurant this Valentine’s Day by making a delicious meal at home! Whether you want to surprise your date with your culinary skills or just want an excuse to spend more time together in your lovely kitchen, home cooking is the way to go. We at Shea Homes® have collected three recipes you can try for a magical evening:
 
Roast Chicken with Mushrooms and Wine Sauce
A classic dish gets an upgrade in this version of roast chicken with the addition of a decadent sauce. Start by heating two tablespoons of oil or butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once warmed, place two bone-in chicken breasts skin side down, cook for five minutes, and then transfer to a baking dish. Add one pound of oyster mushrooms and bake for 25 minutes at 375 degrees. For the wine sauce, melt a tablespoon of butter in the skillet and whisk in a tablespoon of flour along with half a cup of broth and one cup of red wine. Allow to thicken over heat for about ten minutes. Plate the chicken with a drizzle of the sauce and serve by candlelight in your dining room!

Citrus Salmon
Looking for a fresh and tangy entrée? Give this roast salmon a try! Lay out slices from one clementine and one lemon on a baking sheet and add several sprigs of thyme. Place a salmon fillet on top — skin-side down — then brush with a mixture of honey, about a quarter-cup of clementine juice, and a dash of clementine zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook in an oven preheated to 425 degrees for 25 minutes, reapplying the juice mixture about halfway through. Garnish with extra zest and thyme and eat in your breakfast nook for a special intimate night.

Cacio e Pepe
Decided last-minute to stay home for Valentine’s Day? Rich cheese comes together with black pepper for a velvety texture in this pasta dish that takes only minutes to prepare — and you can rely on staples you likely already have stocked in the pantry. Boil well-salted water and cook your choice of pasta — long varieties work best — to al dente and reserve one cup of the water. You’ll want to toast your coarsely-ground black pepper in a saucepan with butter and olive oil (this should only take a minute). Pour in a quarter-cup of the reserved water and bring to a simmer before adding the pasta. Toss to coat and continue tossing as you incorporate a cup of both grated parmesan and pecorino. Once the sauce melts, serve immediately with extra grated cheese and more pepper if desired.

Whether you’re craving an indulgent dinner of comfort food or a nourishing meal with fresh and healthy flavors, one of these recipes is sure to transform your Valentine’s Day into a memorable experience. Don’t forget: Your Shea Homes® kitchen makes an ideal space to prepare your favorite foods for any occasion! To discover different floorplans or learn about available communities, get in touch with us today.