From Linda Larsen,
Your Guide to Busy Cooks.
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These Valentine's Day menus are a perfect way to celebrate a special relationship or just treat yourself and your family in the middle of a cold and dreary winter. I myself like winter because it can be such a cozy time of year, with the fireplace crackling and the house full of good smells from baking and cooking.

I feel that Valentine dinners should be special. Choose your sweetie's favorite foods and surprise him or her with a wonderful romantic meal and a special table set for two. If you have a fireplace, set a small table close by, and use your most delicate china and crystal. A few candles and a small, low bowl of fresh flowers will complete the atmosphere.

The meal can be rich, but make the portion sizes small! Being uncomfortably full is not conducive to a romantic evening. These are my favorite romantic dinners. The traditional menu includes sweet, cold fruits, the crusty, fragrant bread, and the rich and melting meat combine to make a fabulous and unforgettable dinner. Or use your crockpots to have your meal ready the second you come home from a hard day at the office or school. Combine that with a few make-ahead recipes for an appetizer and a fruit salad and you've got a delicious and easy meal. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Traditional Menu

• Bacon Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
• Fresh Fruit Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
• Honey Rolls
• Glazed Grilled Steaks
• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
• Chocolate Almond Pastries

Easy Crockpot Valentine's Dinner

• Rosemary Toasted Mixed Nuts
• Crockpot Beef Stroganoff
• Crockpot Wild Rice Pilaf
• Coconut Fruit Salad
• Crockpot Chocolate Mess

Five Ingredient Valentine's Dinner

• Crab Spread
• Shrimp Kabobs
• Fruit and Cheese Salad
• Garlic Smashed Crockpot Potatoes
• Brownie Pie