A Romantic Valentine's Day Meal

It's Valentine's Day again, and many of us want to prepare a romantic meal for our significant other. I've been through lots of phases in preparing romantic meals. I learned quickly that spending all day preparing an elaborate meal is counter-productive. After all that time and effort, I wasn't even hungry by the time mealtime arrived, and the sink was piled high with dirty dishes. Plus, I was too tired to enjoy the rewards of the romantic meal and atmosphere.

With that in mind, here is what I suggest for a simple, delicious and romantic meal:

Make a deliciously fresh salad with romaine lettuce hearts, shredded carrots and tomato slices. Sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles on top, and use your favorite salad dressing. Buy two good quality ribeye steaks. Season them well. I usually use garlic salt and pepper. Wrap in aluminum foil and place in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill them. Wash two baking potatoes potatoes, pierce each with a fork, spray them lightly with cooking spray, wrap in aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees until tender - about 45 minutes, depending on the size. Approximately 20 minutes before dinner time, grill the steaks - 8-10 minutes on each side.

So here's your menu: grilled ribeye steak, fresh tossed salad, baked potato. If you like bread with you meal, buy a baguette to serve. The perfect dessert for such a meal is sherbet. It provides a light and refreshing finish to the meal. Pair a good quality merlot to drink with the meal. This is a meal that can't be screwed up (unless you overcook or burn the steak). It takes little preparation - and most people love a good steak. You can substitute a premium quality salmon steak for the ribeye, if you prefer.

If you want an appetizer, buy a block of a soft cheese like Neufchatel and some sesame or whole wheat crackers. There's nothing like spreading a little cheese on a cracker and nibbling on it while sipping wine to set a romantic atmosphere for pre-dinner conversation.

Set the table with pretty placemats and consider buying a small fresh flower bouquet for the table. Then relax and enjoy the meal and conversation - and the rewards of your efforts.