Saturday, 8 February 2014

Valentine's Night In



 



The sweetest day of the year is just around the corner! (Well, under a week away at least) and with cuddles, chocolate, good movies,romance galore - there's no denying it really is a lovely day. But whether you've got a someone to share it with this year or not, make it a good one! Now going out for a swanky meal, going to the movies... Let's face it, that's a lot of fun, but who says you have to go out to have all the fun? Whether your Winter cold is still hanging around, whether you're feeling the pinch, or whether you're just not in the mood to go out in the cold, there's no need to put your romantic evening on hold (by yourself or not!) So here's a (hermit's) planned guide to a cuddly, romantic Valentine's Day...




My pick for Valentine's Day movie is - in my eyes - a classic. Although it's a love story, it's not your typical one like "The Notebook" or "Romeo and Juliet", and it's not one that's been seen by many, surprisingly! My pick is "Chocolat" starring Juliette Binoche and our favourite guy Johnny Depp. So whether you're in love with an Irish, guitar-playing Johnny Depp or just masses of scrummy chocolate, this movie is a must-watch this Valentine's Day.




Now this is really up to you - whether you're tucking into a meal for two, or cooking up something yummy for yourself, there's no need to slack on Valentine's Day. My pick for a meal for two today is Pan-Fried Chicken in a Grana Padano Crust (click on the photo to find out the recipe!) Obviously, if you're a Vegetarian/Vegan or this isn't your cup of tea, check out Channel 4's Valentine's Day Recipes (where I found this particular one) or BBC Food's Occasions Recipes. So why the chicken? It's something simple to whip up, won't break the bank, and sounds light and absolutely delightful, so why not!





Make Valentine's Day special! Why not treat yourself (and your partner) to a nice cocktail? For my alcoholic cocktail I've chosen the "Purity Tangerine Rose Cocktail" (disclaimer: not encouraging you if you're under the legal drinking age!) this sounds like a lovely cocktail to sip while at home watching your movie after your meal, so give it a shot! You'll need some tangerine-infused Vodka, fresh-squeezed tangerine juice, fresh-squeezed lime juice, rose syrup, Peychaud's bitters and rosewater. For how to make this cocktail, click on the left image!

Now If you're not really into alcohol - don't worry, I've got you covered. Try out my mocktail selection, "Cran Lime Good Time". Now there are so many different concoctions you can look into as it really is whatever tickles your fancy. This one in particular is a really simple, fresh and fruit mocktail, so I recommend it! For this recipe you'll need cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, ginger ale, ice and cherries/a slice of lime (for decoration). If you like the sound of this, click here to find out how to put it together.





More of a reader than a movie watcher? Rather be snuggled up in bed with a good book and a nice candle burning? If you're looking for a romance-fuelled book full of lovely poems and letters (awww) then this will be a nice up-lifting book to get your hands on. No one said you had to be single to enjoy a good book on Valentine's evening, if your partner is like mine and constantly reads - cuddling up with a book each would work wonders for a cosy night in. Like the look of this book? Click on the image to find out more.




Ah. Potentially the most important part of Valentine's Day. If you're anything like me and you've got a bit of a soft-spot for choccy, hopefully Valentine's day will bring you at least a little bit! No matter what your favourite chocolate, I'm sure we can all agree - it's pretty good stuff. After much deliberation, my Valentine's chocolate pick has to be something a little more unique. Don't get me wrong, I love a little bit of Cadburys, Lindt Lindor, Thorntons, Ferrero Rocher... (You name it!) but if you're staying in this Valentine's Day, why not make your own chocolate? Such a fun idea to whip up some yummy chocolates either with your partner or by yourself (mmm... I can smell the melted chocolate already!) Check out this page right here to take a gander at what goodies you can make. There are so many to choose from! Fudge Hearts, Chocolate Covered Cherries, Caramel Hearts, Chocolate Nutella Hearts, Cinnamon Heart Pops - you decide!


So, if you're not up to leaving the house and braving the cold this Valentine's Day - remember, it doesn't mean you have to put your plans on hold! I can't wait for Valentine's Day, as you can see, I'm really feeling the love! I hope I've given you a little bit of inspiration, and I really hope you all have lovely day/evening no matter what your plans are.




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