Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be just for couples. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to show yourself some love and self-care. So, let’s get started and learn how to dote on yourself this Valentine’s Day!
Here’s a menu for a fun and indulgent solo celebration:
Starter: Heart-Shaped Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 large tomato, cut into thin slices
- 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into thin slices
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic reduction (optional)
Instructions:
- On a large plate, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in a heart shape.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella.
- Top with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve with a balsamic reduction, if desired.
Entree: Single-Serving Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Place the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
- Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breast in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish and top with the marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with fresh basil leaves.
Dessert: Single-Serving Molten Lava Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
- Stir in the flour.
- Pour the batter into a small oven-safe ramekin.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still gooey.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve.
While preparing this delicious meal, take some time to laugh and have fun! Here’s a silly story to get you started:
One year, a single man decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day by cooking a fancy dinner for himself. He put on his best outfit, set the table with candles and flowers, and started cooking. But, as he was plating the food, he tripped and everything went flying! Mr. Solo ended up sitting on the floor, surrounded by his fancy dinner, and started to laugh at the absurdity of the situation. He realized that no matter what, he was still going to enjoy this meal and the celebration of love, even if it was just for himself. He made himself a plate, sat back down at the table, and savored every bite, feeling grateful for the love and care he was giving to himself.
And as you enjoy your meal, don’t forget to treat yourself with positive affirmations. Repeat to yourself things like “I am worthy of love and happiness,” “I am deserving of self-care and pampering,” and “I am capable of giving myself the love I need.”
Whether you’re single or in a relationship, take this Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to show yourself some love and dote on yourself. You deserve it!