Last Minute Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas: Keep it Simple Cupid!

"Cupid's Span" Photo (c) grahamc99 We're not going to judge you, much. Sure, you had weeks to plan a nice dinner for that special someone, but you waited until today to actually figure out what you're going to serve. And, since you don't really know how to cook, you're now panicking wondering what you can possibly pull off without a practice run. Nice going.

Relax, we have you covered. Here are some very sexy main course ideas that can be pulled off by even the most inexperienced cooks and lovers (those two things usually go hand in hand). Just click on the recipe's title, and you'll be swept away to the original post, where the rest will be up to you and cupid.

I want to wish you all a very happy Valentine's Day. Remember, food IS love. Enjoy!

Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb

Besides all the great opportunities for double entendres using the word "rack," this is a simple piece of meat to cook. If you're lucky enough to have a Valentine's date that enjoys a nice big piece of red meat, this is a fabulous choice.

Also, one rack makes two perfectly sized portions, which will work out nicely unless you have some things planned we don't know about. And if you do, please keep them to yourself.

Garlic Ginger Salmon

I use this amazingly simplistic sauce on a piece of grilled salmon in the video, but it will work for any cooking method. If you are comfortable pan searing or broiling a piece of fish, this super sexy sauce will take it (and maybe you) to another place.

I get so many emails about how much people love this recipe – so you can go forward with confidence. By the way, confidence is a proven aphrodisiac.

Penne Pasta with Spicy Sausage Ragu

This bowl of pasta passion is so easy, so delicious, and so satisfying, you'll forget your trying to make someone fall in love with you. Which is perfect since that always makes it much more likely to happen.

Be sure to find out if your date likes spicy foods before pulling out the sausage for this recipe. It can also be made with milder, sweet Italian sausage. Another tip: buy and use Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, to show them you're serious.

Spicy Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a very simple recipe, as long as you get all your prep done before you start cooking. The shrimp only take a few minutes to sauté, so you don't have time to run around chopping scallions or juicing lemons.

Once everything is assembled, this recipe is a snap. You can make the grits a bit ahead, since they stay hot a very long time – [insert your own special Valentine's "they stay hot a very long time" reference here!]

A Bonus Valentine's Day Video from Food Currated!

This gorgeous video is from my very talented friend Liza de Guia, and features Matt and Allison Robicelli, from Robicelli's Cupcakes in New York City. Be sure to check out the full blog post here! Enjoy!