Show love your way this Valentine’s Day

Posted by Justina on 07/02/24 in Recipes

What about the most important love: the love you have for yourself?

There is no better way to treat yourself than eating food that makes you smile and feel good. Perhaps it is a piece of chocolate cake or a juicy slice of fruit. Cook what you love to eat, a dish close to your heart on Valentine’s Day. Do keep dietary requirements in mind and only put food on the plate that you are proud of.

Love comes in many different shapes and sizes. For some it might be nibble-sized finger food. For others it's fine dining or a large sharing plate/graze board.

To go above and beyond when cooking for others, you must consider what food the people you’re cooking for like to eat. If you think they might be unsure about your choice of dishes, you can do a taster menu either beforehand or on the day. Preparation is key. Most vegetables can be prepared a day in advance, as can cakes or sweet treats.

If you are going for a fine dining style of food, don’t forget to add colour, height, different textures and add extra finesse with ‘sauce art’. Slice vegetables or fruit diagonally to make simple foods look more impressive.

Why not decorate your home to make the evening extra special? Candlelight helps to create a romantic ambience. Use colourful flowers and paper hearts to decorate the table. You could even make the decorations with your residents on the day or run fun activities such as crafting or decorating heart shaped biscuits and cupcakes. Create a reminiscence event around your residents' wedding days or other memorable dates. Set up entertainment, such as a live band playing romantic music or organise a sing-along/karaoke session. Be mindful that not everyone likes to get involved. Some people are just happy to watch others perform and have a good time.