RECIPES: Menu for a Valentine's movie night

Ruby Valentino Cocktail, Pasta Angelo, Chocolate Rimmed Glasses & more

HOUSTON – Valentine's Day doesn't have to be a romantic occasion just for two. 

Instead of going out to dinner this year, why not spend some quality time with family and friends at home!

Tim Laird, America's CEO or chief entertaining officer, suggests hosting a movie night and featuring foods that relate to the movie.

"How about a big plate of pasta, inexpensive to make and you can show that with movies like Big Night, Godfather or the famous Lady and the Tramp spaghetti scene," said Laird. 

You will want to serve items that are easy to make (ideally ahead of time) and economical if you are planning a large get together.

Below you will find Tim's Italian-themed Valentine's Day menu.

Ruby Valentino

In a white wine glass, add:

4 ounces Korbel California champagne

2 ounces pomegranate juice

Garnish with candy hearts.

 

Ruby Valentino - Alcohol-Free

In a while wine glass, add:

4 ounces lemon-lime soda

2 ounces pomegranate juice

Garnish with candy hearts.

 

Pasta Angelo

This is a delicious, flavorful and easy-to-make pasta. What sets it apart is the added flavor of the bacon and a touch of cream.

2 slices bacon

1 shallot, chopped

4 cloves garlic, crushed

1 14.5-ounce can diced or crushed tomatoes

1 15-ounce can tomato sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Pinch of salt

2 tablespoons heavy cream

2 teaspoons dried basil

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 teaspoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

1 box angel hair pasta

Olive oil

Cook pasta until it is still slightly firm or al dente. This might be less time than what is recommended on the package. Drizzle pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.  Set aside.

In a large sauté pan, cook bacon over medium heat to render the fat. Do not burn. Discard the bacon and add the shallots and garlic to the pan. Sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, pepper, salt and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the cream, basil and oregano and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.  Add desired amount of pasta to the pan and toss with the sauce to coat and cook until just heated through. Garnish with parmesan cheese and parsley.

Serves 4 – 6

 

Chocolate Rimmed Glasses

For a sweet treat, try a couple bites of dark bittersweet chocolate with red wine. It is truly a wonderful marriage! To make a festive dessert, rim a red wine glass in melted chocolate, let set and when it is dessert time, fill it with cabernet.

 

Black Raspberry Whipped Cream with Berries

1 pint heavy whipping cream

¼ cup powdered sugar

3 tablespoons Chambord liqueur

3 cups fresh strawberries

In a mixer with a wire whisk attachment, combine the cream, powdered sugar and Chambord. Whip on low for 30 seconds to incorporate, then on high for 3 – 4 minutes until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip. Serve in a martini glass surrounded by strawberries.

Serves 4 – 6

 

Reprinted with permission from That’s Entertaining! by Tim Laird, Butler Books.

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