HOUSTON – Nothing says “I love you” more than a tasty, homecooked meal for your Valentine.
Whether you’re planning a romantic meal for two or dinner for the whole family - Leigh Ann Chatagnier, a cookbook author and blogger, shares her easy and delicious three-course menu for Valentine’s Day.
Featuring her Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Crostini, Easy Skillet Chicken Parmesan, and Gluten Free Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pie.
Since Valentine’s Day falls during the week – she’s also sharing some shortcuts that help this meal come together even faster than it would using the traditional recipes.
Up first, the appetizer – Strawberry, Basil and Balsamic Crostini
This crostini is topped with ricotta cheese, cracked fresh black pepper, sliced strawberries, a drizzle of balsamic glaze and finished with some julienned basil.
You can find the full recipe in her cookbook.
Then, the main dish - Easy Skillet Chicken Parmesan
Leigh Ann’s version is a great weeknight option, because she uses one skillet to fry the chicken cutlets and the same skillet to finish them off in the oven (be sure to use an iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish). So you don’t have all of the dirty dishes, pots and pans to deal with after your meal!
She also recommends using chicken cutlets, instead of full size chicken breasts, because they cook evenly and faster.
You can use your favorite store bought marinara sauce to top your fried chicken cutlets (or if you have more time - make your own marinara from scratch).
Leigh Ann serves her chicken parmesan with noodles, zucchini noodles, roasted veggies or a green salad.
She says this recipe takes an hour from start to finish and the kids love it, too!
CLICK HERE to see the full recipe.
Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
Gluten Free Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pie
You can’t talk about Valentine’s Day without mentioning chocolate covered strawberries - it’s right up there with roses and heart-shaped boxes of chocolates!
Leigh Ann’s version really elevates the classic treat by serving them on top of a delicious strawberry pie.
Again, it’s easy to make - but still on the lighter side, too!
It’s got a fluffy whipped cream filling, made with fresh, pureed strawberries and the crust is an almond flour chocolate crust.
CLICK HERE to see the full recipe.
Leigh Ann Chatagnier is the author of “Modern Cajun Cooking.”
You can also follow her blog, “My Diary of Us” for more recipe inspiration.