12 Essentials for a Romantic Dinner Date at Home

Chicken Tikka Masala Naan Tacos

With this Indian take on tacos, you can customize to your preferences. Like it spicy? Add more chili. Like it saucy? Drizzle on that mint yogurt dressing, and dig in! (via Brit + Co)

Pasta with Pancetta and Tomato Sauce

Have your own Lady and the Tramp moment with this pancetta twist on your standard spaghetti. Date night is served! (via Brit + Co)

This tasty dish requires very little introduction. Tacos? Always. Carnitas? Yes, please. Done in under an hour? Duh. Plus the Instant Pot version beats slow-cooking it by a mile. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

The secret to this one-pot pasta from Half Baked Harvest? Basil pesto, and plenty of cheese on top. (via Brit + Co)

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

With a cast-iron skillet, store-bought dough and all the cheese you can imagine, you can easily make delicious pizza at home for the fraction of the price. Just add your favorite toppings! (via Brit + Co)

One Pot Chicken Couscous

This deliciously vibrant meal will impress your taste buds, and it's ready in just 30 minutes. (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Garlicky Pasta

Spaghetti, when twirled in golden-brown garlic and hot olive oil, becomes perfectly coated in a simple mixture of spicy red pepper flakes, tangy lemon juice, and salty Parmesan cheese. Top your bowl with parsley and extra Parm, and you have dinner on the table (or the couch) for two. (via Brit + Co)

French Dip Sandwiches

Keep it casual with a fancy sandwich night. We love a good reason to use our Instant Pot, and this French Dip sandwich is better than most. Juicy and delicious, it's comfort food at its best! (via Brit + Co)

The Perfect Steak Recipe

With minimal seasoning and the right equipment, you can make a delicious steak that's seared to perfection in under five minutes. (via Brit + Co)

Vegetable Galette

Pre-made pie dough FTW! Add asparagus, leek, and Swiss chard for a seriously delish meal experience for you and your love. (via Brit + Co)

Pressure Cooker Chicken Pho

It can easily take 10 hours just to make broth for pho, but with the help of a pressure cooker, it can be ready in under an hour. It's fun to make — and to eat too! (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower Rice Sushi

Full of color and flavor, there's just something about sushi recipes that our tastebuds love. Grab a handful of veggies and your favorite chopsticks, and try your hand at rolling your own sushi with a yummy cauliflower rice twist. (via Brit + Co)

Grilled Umami Burgers

When we sunk our teeth into the world-famous Umami Burger that's served in dining locations as far as Japan, it was love at first bite. Every component, from the Parmesan crisp to the caramelized onions to the seared patty itself, bursts with savory flavor — and now you can make it at home with this recipe from the cookbook Flavor Bombs: The Umami Ingredients That Make Taste Explode. (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Salmon Nicoise

Roasted Salmon Nicoise

With the success of our one pot wonders like Skillet Pan Pizza, we are pleased to introduce our next dish, Roasted Salmon Nicoise. While our pizza recipe was fun, our salmon is a decidedly fancier take on the one pot wonder. (via Brit + Co)

Deep Fried Oysters

Oysters are a little bit like eggs – they can be served so many different ways. There's the classic raw oyster, salty and delicious. Then there's the barbecued oyster, so tasty with toppings. We can't forget the oyster Rockefeller, baked with cheesy deliciousness. Here's one breaded in chips and deep fried, like a dessert and an appetizer in one. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Paleo Orange Chicken

Skip your usual Chinese takeout and try our paleo version of the classic American-Chinese dish orange chicken. It's like bringing the restaurant to you – yum! (via Brit + Co)

Lemony Shrimp Linguine with Spinach

Lemony Shrimp Linguine With Spinach

With a little more effort (and not that much more time), it's possible to cook up a complete pasta meal (as in veg, protein, and carb) in one pot. Here's proof! (viaBrit + Co)

Honey Mustard Chicken

Do a bit of arranging, brushing, and drizzling, then let the oven take care of the rest of the work to create a dinner that's sure to end up on the regular recipe rotation! We use chopped potatoes, carrots, and red onion in this recipe, but you could easily replace with baby new potatoes, baby carrots, and shallots or scallions to skip the knife work! (via Brit + Co)

Pesto Pasta Smoked Salmon

Pesto Pasta Smoked Salmon

For this one-pot meal, we're also adding mascarpone, asparagus and smoked salmon to give this pesto/spaghetti dish a luxurious feel. An amazing 20-minute meal, made in one pan — you don't even need dishes! (via Brit + Co)

Tilapia Fish Tacos

One bite of these flavorful and crispy fish tacos, and you'll be hooked. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Tomato and White Bean Casserole

This vegan bite delivers a harmonious mix of veggies for a filling meal for two. (via Brit + Co)

​What is a good Valentine's Day dinner?

A good Valentine's Day dinner is anything that is delicious and romantic, and that will change for every couple (or if you're alone!). V Day is always a good excuse to cook up a steak if you and your partner eat meat, but pasta or seafood are also great ideas. Or go for a surf and turf dinner that incorporates all of them. You can also add aphrodisiacs into the menu, but whatever you pick, don't forget dessert!

What is the Valentine's Day menu?

Your Valentine's Day menu is totally up to you and your partners' tastes. You can check out what's local to your area if you want to have a menu that reflects this time of year in your state. In terms of courses, you can opt for dinner and dessert or go all out with an appetizer, entrée, drinks, and dessert.

What to make for a romantic dinner at home?

Here are some popular Valentine's Day foods you can consider making:

• Steak
• Seafood
• Chocolate
• Pasta
• Sushi
• Wine
• Fish
• Crème brûlée
• Strawberries

Prepare to swoon over this simple sous vide steak. Pair it with a baked potato and steamed veg. (via Brit + Co)

Nothing says high class quite like a well-cooked steak. Take it from the pros and cook it medium-rare for the most intense flavor. We love the classic steak and baked potato combo, but feel free to shake things up with a different side. (via Brit + Co)

You know we love vodka cocktails, so we are all about some vodka pasta! It's a 30-minute recipe topped with basil pesto and loads of your favorite cheese and you can add some red pepper flakes for some extra spice if you want. Swap the vodka for broth or water if you don't want to cook with alcohol. It'll taste just as good! (via Brit + Co)

For charcuterie board fans or those of us who'd rather much on apps than have a full-blown dinner, these poke bites are cute, delicious, and have us dreaming of summer. Pickled ginger, avocado, and red onion take this recipe to a new level. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

A soup that's delicious *and* features veggies, cheese, and pasta all in one? Count us in. Just put everything in your slow cooker and let it come together while you finish getting ready. (via Brit + Co)

This one-pot wonder is great for any day of the week. Salmon, potatoes, olives, and green beans (along with some other delicious ingredients) come together to create a flavorful combo that you'll daydream about until you can eat it again. (via Brit + Co)

A healthy, colorful dish like this butternut squash recipe makes for a great dinner recipe for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Plus it makes for an awesome winter comfort food. (via Brit + Co)

Air fryer salmon is a great Valentine's Day dinner idea for anyone who works long hours and doesn't want to spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. Plus it's healthier than your other frying options! Not a fan of salmon? Try chicken or potatoes for other yummy options. (via Brit + Co)

This recipe from Rachael Ray has some of the most interesting and captivating flavors we've tasted in a long time, and with meat, fruit, dairy, and starches, you're eating a lot of the food groups. (via Brit + Co)

All you need for this delicious date night recipe is sausage, canned tomatoes, and pasta. And don't forget your favorite cheese, of course. This is a great option for having a fancy dinner at the dining table or curling up on the couch for a romantic movie. (via Brit + Co)

There's something so sophisticated and stylish about having a charcuterie board anytime of year, but especially on Valentine's Day. You can make it a red, pink, and white color scheme with fruit, dried flowers, and cheese, or try your hand at a breakfast-for-dinner board with heart-shaped pancakes, berries, and chocolate. (Via Brit + Co)

Quick, easy, and delicious, what's not to love about this chicken recipe?! Tomato-y, buttery chicken goes great with flavorful naan and white rice. Sprinkle with cilantro before you serve. (via Brit + Co)

If you're avoiding regular pasta, try zucchini noodles instead of regular for a healthy take on your favorite dishes. Serve with pesto, olive oil and vinegar dressing, or Alfredo sauce to make a creamy pasta. (via Brit + Co)

This dish might be geared for summer picnics, but it will also make a great option for your winter nights in. Change up the spices and seasonings depending on what your favorite flavors are, or make a couple different mixes and try them all! (via Brit + Co)

Okay so donuts don't technically count as an option for dinner but you can definitely make them for dessert! (Especially if you've already had your fill of lobster tails or pasta). You can even add some espresso to the chocolate glaze for a mocha taste. (via Brit + Co)

Not only does sushi make for a yummy Valentine's Day dinner for you and your S.O. but the actual construction of the sushi sounds just as great! Swap regular rice for some DIY cauliflower rice but feel free to keep your favorite fillings and sauces. (via Brit + Co)

Another great option for a smaller, finger food dinner, stuffed avocados make for a tasty and filling dish. You can also leave out the shrimp to make this an easy meat-free recipe. (via Brit + Co)

We're huge fans of ramen noodle meals and know this is one Valentine's Day dinner idea that can't be topped. Call us biased, but you'll find it hard not to be once you get a taste of this caramelized blend of pork, open face-egg, and jalapenos. (via Brit + Co)

Get your hands messy with this appetizing and flavorful recipe! With ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and red wine, your taste buds will be satiated. (via Brit + Co)

Looking for Valentine's Day dinner ideas that are healthy and won't put a dent in your budget? Try your hand at this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta! (via Brit + Co)

Eating breakfast for dinner seems to stir up our inner little girl, so we're sharing this delish recipe with you! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Piccata

Chicken is always a pretty safe option when cooking dinner, but this recipe dresses it up into something extra delicious. (via Culinary Hill)

Duck Confit Salad

Make your Valentine something extra fancy with this confit salad. Not only is this Valentine's Day dinner elegant but it also features pomegranates and avocados, so we can't say no. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Whether you're making brunch or having brunch for dinner, this is a great French toast-croissant hybrid. Swap the drizzle of maple with a chocolate drizzle to make it extra Valentine-esque. Serve with white wine or champagne. (via Brit + Co)

With classic Cuban flavors, this mouthwatering pork recipe is juicy and moist. Pro tips: Spring for a high-quality meat source from your local butcher or farmers’ market, and marinate the pork overnight to make this top-notch recipe even tastier. (via The Food Charlatan)

If you’re both eating garlic, then you won’t have to worry about dreaded “garlic breath” after. Shrimp and gnocchi are already amazing on their own, but put them together for a powerhouse meal that everyone will want. You'll want to grab some red wine to go with this one. (via Damn Delicious)

If you prefer something a little more casual (or just love handheld food), try out these amazing wraps. Make your own tzatziki if you're feeling adventurous. (via Forks and Foliage)

These naturally pink ravioli are packed with decadent flavors and topped with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and savory combo. Plus considering it's Valentine's Day, we'll take all the pink food that we can get our hands on. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Pasta dishes have a certain sensuousness to them, and this indulgent, cheesy manicotti dish cries out for a cozy and lovey-dovey night in. Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. Bring on all the bread and garlic butter. (via The Cooking Jar)

Mussels are delicate, fleshy, and delicious and lend a hand to any full-bodied sauce. The beer base will require all the bread to sop up every last drop of goodness. (via Drizzle and Dip)

Butter Candles

Add a little bit of ~mood lighting~ with these candles that are literally made out of butter. They make the perfect addition to any dinner and are like 2023's version of butter boards. (via Brit + Co)

If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with your girlfriends, or even going stag, make this colorful and sweet dessert board. You might spoil your dinner but honestly, it's worth it. (via Amanda Wilens)

This healthful, Whole30-approved pot roast doesn't skimp on yum factor even though it's made with completely clean ingredients. (via Noshtastic)

This plant-based tomato sauce blends cashews, roasted tomatoes, and onions. It is so good, the non-vegans in your life won't mind eating it too. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Raspberry Almond Crumb Cake

Let this moist raspberry almond crumb cake help set the tone for sexy activities after dinner. It's full of ooey-gooey goodness that'll leave you and your date's mouths watering. (via Cozy Cravings)

Elle remembers "sobbing" during one particularly emotional Dakota Fanning movie.

“When Elle’s in anything, it makes me feel it deeper,” Dakota Fanning said at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit on December 3. “She never can fully disappear into a character totally for me as her sister. She obviously does an amazing job, but I’m always gonna see my little sister a little bit.”

And Elle is just as touched by Dakota's roles, and remembers "uncontrollably sobbing" after seeing Now Is Good, a movie where Dakota's character was dying of cancer. “Because it was my sister, I had a real traumatic reaction after that premiere and the screening,” Elle says. “Obviously the acting, but it was something felt on a deeper level.”

“I’m doing this job, I’m an actor because my sister started before me and I watched her,” Elle continues. “I wanted to do exactly what my big sister wanted to do.”

And their movies have also made an impact on everyone who watches them.

When Brit + Co caught up with Dakota Fanning at the world premiere of The Watchers, I had to ask about one of her most iconic movies: Uptown Girls. "I love it," she says of TikTok memes and edits giving the movie new life. "It's nostalgic for people who are kind of around my age, who grew up watching that movie, I think it's like a comfort movie for people. And so I love that people are still revisiting it and loving it. And maybe now that everyone's older [they're] understanding different things about it."

Dakota starred opposite Brittany Murphy, who also had roles in movies like Clueless, 8 Mile, and Girl, Interrupted. Brittany passed away in 2009 when Dakota was 15. "I loved Brittany so much and I still miss her," she says. "So anytime that she has, you know, a moment where people think about her is also nice."