When I was in my teens, the words straight out of my mouth were that I never wanted to cook and would have to marry someone who could. Luckily, that actually worked out, but who knew I’d fall in love with cooking, too! I guess it’s kind of like making jewelry – you start with ingredients, mix them together, add some details, and something (hopefully) fabulous happens. 

They say that the way to a person’s heart is through their stomachs, which apparently worked on me, so this Valentine’s day, I encourage you to show your affection through food! (And you thought I was going to suggest buying jewelry - plot twist!) Gather your favorite people – even your neighbors – and get ready to impress them all, ‘cause I’m going to share three of my favorite recipes with you!

Nothing like a meal you can make ahead so your guests have your full attention. Two of my favorite “make-ahead” dishes are chicken Provençal and mashed potatoes. The chicken Provencal recipe from the New York Times is a knock out - just follow it to the T and you’ll impress even yourself – in fact, you might want to double the recipe so you have leftovers!

Compliment the chicken with another winner that I grew up with at every big holiday meal; the Silver Palate’s Thanksgiving Potatoes. Close your eyes when you look at the ingredients and just know you’ll enjoy every bite immensely because these absolutely ridiculous/delicious potatoes are the best you’ll ever eat.

Obviously while you’re making the above (and below), you’ll need to wear some festive earrings. Because why not glam it up?! I promise you’ll have more fun moving around the kitchen with something like the Landscape: Sky, Winterscape Earrings.

Now for my go-to secret weapon… This Plum Tart recipe is so insane every time, plus is easy enough for a ten year-old. If it’s not plum season, don’t worry – you can use just about any fruit. I’ve baked this with apricots, figs, even blueberries. How to level this up? Put in a little dash of almond extract into the batter and you’ll hit nirvana. At the end, add some ice cream or homemade whipped cream and whomever is having dessert with you is never going to leave. In fact, save some for the next morning’s coffee. *wink*