Bella Notte: A Valentine’s Day Menu

As a crackling fire dances in the hearth, enjoy a Valentine’s Day meal that’s inspired by romance and Italian cuisine. 

Fireside Affair
Dress a small, intimate table in shades of rich ruby, complemented by striking hues of tangerine. Ornate stemmed glasses and a collection of gold-trimmed dinnerware bring subtle elegance to this relaxed setting in the comfort of home.

Sealed with a rose and delivered like letters of affection, napkins folded into lovely envelopes echo the heartfelt tradition of Valentine’s Day. Get all the details for this gorgeous style in our step-by-step napkin-folding tutorial.

Dinner for Two
Borrow from the Italians’ time-honored tradition of preparing simple, satisfying dishes with a few fresh ingredients.

Individual Tomato-Basil Tartlets studded with cherry tomatoes and fragrant herbs shine as an appetizing prelude to a Florentine specialty: a Bistecca alla Fiorentina (seared steak) (seared steak) made to share with a side of Lemon Garlic Green Beans.

A creamy Blood Orange Tiramisu is full of rich flavor with the addition of bright citrus flavors. Bring your joyous evening to a close with a bubbly Grapefruit Bellini, lingering in the company of a loved one.
 

Recipe Development and Food Styling by Nancy Hughes
Styling by Tracey MacMillan Russell
Photography by Jim Bathie

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