Healthy Romantic Dinner Recipes for Valentine's Day

Looking for a delicious and affordable way to say "I Love you " this Valentine's Day? Win your way to that special someone's heart with a romantic meal at home.

Light some candles, uncork your favorite bottle of wine and add some healthy romance to your special day with these homemade meals for two!

Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

A blend of four cheeses, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes tucked into savory mushroom caps, which are thought to be an aphrodisiac. The key to cutting calories from this recipe is using tomatoes that haven't been packed in oil, and going for part-skim cheese.

Spanish Tapas-Inspired Mussels

Shellfish, such as oysters and mussels, are thought to be some of nature's most powerful aphrodisiacs. In this dish, dark mussel shells provide a striking contrast to the tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fragrant saffron that come together with dry sherry to create a flavorful sause. Warm crusty French bread in the oven to soak up some of this dish's sauce. 

Pomegranate Duck 

Preparing duck might seem like a daunting task, but this rich recipe makes it easy by using a duck breast rather than the whole bird. The browned and roasted poultry is topped with a simple but delicious sauce that highlights the unique flavor of pomegranate.

Seared Salmon with Green Peppercorn Sauce

Green peppercorns come from the same plant as black ones, but are harvested before they mature. Typically packed in vinegar, they have a refreshingly sharp flavor. Serve with smashed red potatoes and sautéed kale.

Tunisian Vegetable Tagine

For a vegetarian addition to your Valentine's Day menu, try this flavorful stew with a North Africa-inspired spice blend of coriander, caraway, and paprika. Chickpeas and eggs provide plenty of filling protein, and precut, frozen mixed vegetables save you precious time in the kitchen.

Chocolate Fondue

It wouldn't be Valentine's Day without chocolate. Instead of the expected box of chocolates, add some fun to your meal with this fondue. Prepare the simple, rich chocolate sauce (the darker the chocolate, the healthier), and then use skewers to dip your favorite cut-up fruits. Be sure to include strawberries in the mix, as the bright-red berries are a famous aphrodisiac.

Grilled Apples With Cheese and Honey

Grill thinly sliced tart apples and top with savory cheese and toasted pecans. A light drizzle of honey, which contains boron, a mineral that can increase your body's testosterone levels, providers the perfect finish. You can also use sharp cheddar cheese in place of Parmigiano-Reggiano.