Special Occasions - Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Holidays for Two
By Kevin D. Weeks., About.com Guide to Cooking for Two
I know a lot of people who assert that cooking for one or two isn't worth the trouble. This idea is completely foreign to me, in fact I love cooking for one or two as much as I love cooking for large parties. When I was married there was nothing I could do to better demonstrate my love for my wife than preparing a special dinner just for the two of us on our anniversary or her birthday or Valentine's Day. And as someone now single there is nothing I can do more self-affirmative than cooking a special dinner for myself on my birthday or on those occasions when I spend a holiday alone.
Elegant Entrees
The entree is the foundation of every fancy meal. Some of these recipes are simple and easy, albeit as fancy as one could hope for, while others are more complicated and time-consuming. And the most complicated have detailed instructions below under Spectacular Specialties.
- Beef Wellington: Elegant, Easy, Exceptional
- Greek Veal Scaloppini
- Crab and Asparagus in Puff Pastry
- Salmon in Parchment (en papillote)
- Pork Medallions with Apple Cream Sauce
Magnificant Menus
Although the entrée is a meal's foundation, the side dishes, appetizers, and desserts are essential to a perfect meal - much less a celebration. Hopefully you'll find both recipes and ideas here for rounding out your private feast.
- An Italian Easter Feast for Two
- Valentine's Day Menu for Two
- Happy Anniversary: Celebrate Your Day
- They Say it's Your Birthday
Spectacular Specialties
Special occasions are a great opportunity for exercising your plating skills. I always consider garnishes, colors, and textures when planning such a meal. But sometimes the entrée alone is so over-the-top that little garnishment is needed. Here are a couple of techniques for such entrees.
