32 Of The Best White Elephant Gift Ideas Ever

​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)

Stained Glass Cookie Pops

These Valentine's cookies take some real skill, but the heavy-lifting for this recipe will be well-worth it once you see your date's face upon their first bite. (via Brit + Co)

Celebrity Crush Cookies

You're already getting together with your girls for Galentine's Day, so there's no reason to not make this cheeky Valentine's Day cookie recipe with your closest circle! Decorating these treats with the names of your fave celeb crushes will definitely get the gossip going! (via Brit + Co)

Cupid's Arrow Cookies

If they just can't resist a sweet treat, aim right for their heart with these adorable Cupid's arrow cookies. (via Brit + Co)

Conversation Heart Sugar Cookie Bars

Even though they're not technically Valentine's cookies, these cookie bars still deliver on the sweetness you know and love from the OG. The thick layer of icing and conversation heart toppings are super cute! (via Brit + Co)

Conversation Heart Cookies

We love the idea of writing personalized messages to each of your Galentines on these heart cookies. Bonus tip: to keep everything nice, neat, and legible, invest in a food coloring pen rather than trying to write on these babies with a piping bag. (via Bake at 350)

Easy Strawberry Crinkle Cookies

Crunchy and flaky on the outside, yet soft and gooey on the inside, these pink crinkle cookies pair perfectly with a V-Day nightcap. (via Meatloaf and Melodrama)

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Valentine's Hearts

Why have we not been dipping cookie dough in melted chocolate for years?! This delectable V-Day dessert features a chocolate chips, peanut butter, *and* cookie dough, all dipped in a warm and creamy bath of chocolate fondue. We love. (via OMG Chocolate Desserts)

Valentine Chalkboard Cookies

Here's another creative Valentine's cookie idea that lets you share personalized messages with every Valentine on your list: cover your heart-shaped cookies with black frosting, wait for it to dry, then write some sweet messages with white food coloring for the chalkboard-like effect. Cute, right? (via Saving With Sarah)

Oreo Cheesecake Cookies

These treats require just five ingredients — well, six, if you add food coloring to make them a thematic pink. (via Nest of Posies and Baker by Nature)

Teddy Bear Graham Cookies Holding Conversation Hearts

These Valentine's Day cookies are as simple as buying some Teddy Grahams and affixing conversation hearts to their lil' bellies with some frosting. The kiddos will adore these! (via Hello, Wonderful)

Valentine's Day Chocolate-Covered Vegan Oreos

No-bake dessert recipes are a total life hack, especially around the holidays when you don't have much energy for anything else other than making sure your Valentine's Day cards make it to the post office. This recipe uses Oreos, melted chocolate, and sprinkles. Easy! (via The Edgy Veg)

Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Hearts

All you need to make some stellar V-Day treats is a heart-shaped cookie cutter and a dream. And chocolate, of course – always need some chocolate! (via Hello Little Home)

Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies

Two of our fave desserts – cookies and red velvet cake – amazingly come together in these decadent Valentine's cookies. The heart wants what it wants, and what we want is ten of these, please. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Valentine Butter Cookies

These low-key love day cookies are extremely easy to customize based on who you plan to share them with. Run with the recipient's favorite color for the main frosting – they'll certainly appreciate the special, personalized touch from you! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Cherry-Kissed Coconut Macaroons

Fresh cherries and coconut flakes combine in a truly otherworldly way with this Valentine's cookies recipe. Equally sweet and tangy, your V-Day date will instantly fall in love with your baking skills shown through these bites. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Cardamom & Rose Palmiers

If you're not so big on small talk, let the romantic, floral allure of cardamom and rose do the talking. Bet you your Valentine has never tasted cookies like these. (via Signature Concoctions)

Valentine's Day Oreos

Sure, specialty Oreo flavors can be fun, but the homemade variety are so much sweeter. These almost remind us of Oreo Cakesters, which are the crème de la crème, TBH. (via Sincerely Jean)

Small Batch Sugar Cookies

How cute are these mini sugar cookies? Smear on red and pink frosting, and sprinkle them with colorful sprinkles to your heart's delight. (via Dessert for Two)

Take a Pizza My Heart Cookies

These Valentine's cookies might just be better than an actual heart-shaped pizza. Though this recipe requires some time and effort to decorate, the end result is *so* worth it. You'll need piping bags, icing tips, cookie dough, toothpicks, and red heart sprinkles to make 'em. (via Bake at 350)

Heart-Shaped Peanut Butter Cookies

If you're not a huge fan of sugar cookies or anything pink (if so, are you okay?!), these peanut butter cookies may be more up your alley. They're made with brown sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract, and — bonus — they're ready in only 30 minutes. (via The Semi-Sweet Sisters)

Valentine's Day Oreo Pops

Treat yourself and your sweethearts to cookies on a stick this year! This Valentine's Day cookie recipe also leverages store-bought Oreos to deliver maximum yum. (via Happiness Is Homemade)

Very Valentine Pudding Cookies

These bites are essentially pudding, but in cookie form. They're incredibly soft, gooey, and chocolatey. The chocoholics in your life will have to try hard not to inhale them, we swear. (via Crazy for Crust)

Linzer Cookies

These traditional Linzer cookies are comprised of a tart jam filling and two sugary shortbread cookies. Almond and cinnamon also make a few guest appearances, making for a totally yummy dessert. (via Cooking Classy)

4-Ingredient Strawberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft, sweet, and strawberry-infused, these cookies give you a nice alternative to the traditional chocolate chip. And, as a *major* bonus, you only need four ingredients: strawberry cake mix, vegetable oil, white chocolate chips, and eggs. (via Easy Peasy Pleasy)

Vegan Valentine's Day Cookie Pops

Saying “I love you" doesn't have to put your sweetie into a sugar coma. Try this gluten-free shortbread cookie recipe with a sugar-free frosting! Freeze-dried raspberries add some nice color and texture to this healthier alternative. (via Wallflower Kitchen)

Chocolate Valentine Kiss Cookies

Sharing a kiss is always sweet, but it hits different when the smooch arrives atop miniature chocolate cookies. 😉 (via The Kitchen Is My Playground)

Mason Jar Cookies

There's just something so special about receiving DIY Valentine's Day gifts. Take these mason jar cookies for example – we're totally into the detail + sugary goodness. (via The Crafting Foodie)

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Cookies

A simple box of strawberry cake mix will make anybody blush when it's transformed into soft and chewy cookies that are dipped in white chocolate and adorned with heart-shaped sprinkles. (via I Heart Naptime)

Valentine's Day Fortune Cookies

This pink pomegranate fortune cookie recipe will let your S.O. know just how fortunate you feel to have them in your life. (via What Jew Wanna Eat)

Copycat Lofthouse Cookies

If you're addicted to Lofthouse cookies (we're guilty, too), this Valentine's cookie recipe will definitely come in handy. (via Cincy Shopper)

Valentine's Cookie Box

Give your sweetie your heart (literally) by baking these cookies that stack into a treasure box. One look at these, and they won't want to hide their favorite treats inside for long. (via Glorious Treats)

Valentine's Day Cookies

Share the love with the ultimate chocolate chip cookie lover in your life using this Valentine's Day cookie recipe. Yup, no sugar cookie recipe here – just a delicious chocolate chip cookie covered in lots of frosting and sprinkles. (via Fashionable Hostess)

Heart-Shaped Valentines Oreos

All you need is four ingredients to make quite possibly the best V-Day cookie you've ever made in your life. These taste like Oreos (!) and are double-stuffed with pink frosting for an even more festive treat. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

These sugar cookie bars are the perfect alternative to your average (albeit delicious) Valentine's cookie. Feel free to get as creative as you'd like with sprinkles and toppings, but we're personally loving the little gummy hearts. (via Dessert for Two)

Soft M&M Chocolate Cookies

It's all in the details with this cookie recipe. We simply can't get enough of those red, white, and pink M&M's peeking out of the top of the cookies! (via Averie Cooks)

Heart-Shaped Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Here's to showing peanut butter cookies more love than ever before. Not only are these heart-shaped cookies made using a simple peanut butter cookie recipe, but the chocolates on top are filled with it, too. Oh, happy day! (via Kara Creates)

Hanes SuperSoft 2-Piece Lounge Set

This $14 (was $27) lounge set comes with two super-soft separates that boast a roomy fit, so you can relax in total comfort.

Promising review: "I haven’t bought any Hanes products for myself before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised with these pjs. They’re so comfy and cozy, the fabric is so soft. I ordered my normal size and they fit perfectly. The oversized boxy tee with the oversized shorts work great for hot summer nights. They’re not a heavyweight cotton but not flimsy and thin either; like a typical cotton tee. They washed well and I never put my clothes in the dryer in an effort to extend the life of my clothing. They’re a good quality for the price."

Anrabess Overalls

Actually cute overalls? For just $20?! Wowza. This adjustable pair is such fun one-and-done outfit idea to keep close during spring and summer. We love to wear ours over tank tops and tees alike!

Promising review: "Really cute short overalls! Fits as suggested. I’m 5’4”, 140 lbs, and I have thick thighs. The leg openings are fairly wide even on me. I’m not a youngster anymore and appreciate that these aren’t short shorts. I washed them and the material and straps came out smooth. Nice material held its shape and no shrinkage."

FashionPuzzle Small Crescent Shoulder Bag

This $20 (was $27) shoulder bag makes a great wear-everywhere accessory, especially if you're looking for a playful pop of color! You can find it in 19 more colors to suit your style.

Promising review: "This purse is a keeper. The size is perfect, not too small, not too big. I ordered two colors for my daughter. Colors were vibrant. The quality is good. She has been using for 2 months now with no quality problems. I would buy again."

Wiholl Cap Sleeve Top

Fit with some summery cap sleeves, this $9 (was $20) top is a wardrobe must-have for those warmer days. It's also shoppable in so many different solid colors to match your outfit plans!

Promising review: "I admit I did not have high hopes for this top but I was genuinely surprised at the quality. Nice thick fabric that is not see through. Great on trend look for spring and summer."

The Gym People Full-Zip Up Hoodie

It's giving Lulu vibes for way less. This $20 (was $37) zip-up hoodie is easy to throw on and even easier to wear all day, thanks to its soft cotton construction. It's fitted with plenty of pockets and accented with seams throughout to give it a luxe look!

Promising review: "The material feels pretty thick and like it will hold up decently well. I think the cut is super flattering. Great value for the price!"

Anrabess Boxer Shorts

These stunning $9 (was $15) shorts are perfect for lounging around or heading out for errands in style. The gingham is undeniably on-trend right now – pair 'em with a white tank or graphic tee and sneakers, and you're set!

Promising review: "They are cute and comfy, I would size up though if you wanted more of an oversized look. They feel nice with a cute color. They aren’t see through, good quality for price and not too thick either so they are good for summer."

Trendy Queen Going Out Summer Tank Top

This is the most stunning top to take out on the town if you still want some good coverage! The boat neckline is nothing but trendy, plus it looks super sophisticated no matter what you pair it with. For just $12 (was $26) and 20 colors to shop from, this is a deal you can't miss for the sake of your closet.

Promising review: "These are terrific for any wardrobe. I loved them so much that I bought two. They fit nicely, are comfortable, and are great for wearing underneath a blazer, or alone. They are very versatile and slenderizing, hugging your waist."

Semaro Casual Linen High Waist Pants

Linen pants are an absolute staple for summer, and now's the perfect time get your outfits prepped and ready with this $17 (was $20) pair. The elastic waistband and breathable linen fabric make them a dream to wear. Comfy vibes only!

Promising review: "Very cool and comfortable for the upcoming warmer weather. Nice bright white. Elastic waist has waist tie to adjust for comfort. They look great on. Slightly wide leg and ankle. Will look great with summer tops. Can be fashionable for older or younger women. Did not shrink when washed in col water on delicate cycle. Air dried. Has a pretty linen texture. Not see through which can be an issue with some white materials."

Amazon Essentials Lightweight V-Neck Cardigan

This easy-wearing cardigan is practically begging for a place in your closet. Though basic, it'll pair well with pretty much everything! From jeans to dresses, if you're in need of a reliable light layering piece, this $15 pick is downright perfect.

Promising review: "Bought this cardigan to wear over a denim dress and other dresses. It is 55% cotton and true to size. Quality is great and feels very soft. If you like the traditional-cardigan look, give this one a try!"

Feisedy Vintage Aviator Sunglasses

A cute pair of sunnies never fails to make your 'fits pop. This $16 (was $23) pair is packed with vintage vibes to enhance any look.

Promising review: "Absolutely love these!! The style is fun, the color is amazing, and they actually look and feel high quality!"