A Valentine’s Feast with Steak and Sweet Berries

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut, around 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup red wine (a dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well)
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for a little acidity)
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time for your desired doneness). Remove from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, covered loosely with foil.
3. Make the Red Wine Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped shallot and cook over medium heat until softened, about 2 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in the red wine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer and reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the beef broth, thyme, balsamic vinegar (if using), and brown sugar. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
   • Whisk in the butter to finish the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Place the steaks on plates and spoon the red wine sauce over the top.

Sweetheart Salad: Strawberries, Feta, and Love in Every Bite

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or a combination)
• 6-8 ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese for a creamier texture)
• 1/4 cup walnuts (or almonds), toasted (optional for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or vinaigrette)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad: In a bowl, toss the salad greens with the sliced strawberries and crumbled cheese.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Finish with Nuts: If using, sprinkle the toasted walnuts or almonds over the top for added texture.

Serving the Meal:

• Plate the steak with the red wine sauce drizzled over the top.
• Serve the strawberry salad on the side, or as a starter.
• Pair with a glass of the same red wine you used for the sauce to complete the experience!

This dinner is elegant but easy to pull off. Do you want a dessert idea to finish the meal, or is the steak and salad all you need for your perfect Valentine's night?