Every year, millions of people look forward to one special day that is celebrated across the world and anticipated with pounding hearts. There are various schools of thought on how Valentine’s Day came about, and regardless of the how, it’s a holiday that’s certainly here to stay.

One of the problems that might crop is how to create new and original ways of being romantic while maintaining a bit of a budget. The best possible idea is to create a theme and a menu for ease of realization and easy seduction. It doesn’t need to be complicated to be wonderful.

Here are some fun and simple tips that will help you set the stage for a romantic and sensual evening with that someone special:

Start by making a pitcher of mint tea and make sure to have two lovely glasses on hand. Take barely boiled water and drop in a handful or two of fresh mint leaves, depending on how strong you like it, and allow to steep to the desired strength. If you want to, add a touch of sweetener, such as honey or brown sugar. This helps keeps your breath fresh from the inside out.

One of the most versatile fruits is the Fig. It is scrumptious served as an appetizer; roasted, drizzled with balsamic, nuts and goat cheese. It is even more luscious as a dessert; slice it open and add a small berry and a drizzle of white chocolate for a simple, luxurious bite.

For dinner, your choices should be light. Remember that this is not when one wants a full belly! Most aphrodisiacs are small, easy bite foods that don’t weigh down the body. Fresh asparagus, blanched and served with butter would be a gorgeous accompaniment to avocado on a bed of baby greens, a splash of lemon and toasted walnuts or lightly scrambled eggs with some thinly shaved truffle and toasted brioche.

To seduce a lover, cooking is a tried and true method. Compose dishes with passion in your heart and you impart each dish with the love and excitement that you feel. Decide what you would like to present, and make it beautiful; meringues with fresh strawberries or chocolate truffles are foods that are easy to make and delicious to eat.

Whatever you choose to make, put your whole heart into the process of creating, sharing and enjoying both the food and the moment as well as the full impact your enchanting handiwork will have.

Rosewater Meringues

2 large egg whites, room temperature
Pinch salt
1/2 c cane sugar
1/2 tsp rosewater

Preheat oven to 300 F. In a bowl, whip egg whites to not quite stiff peaks. Add sugar slowly, while beating. Add rosewater, beat until viscous and shiny. Pipe or drop by the spoonful onto a sheet tray lined with parchment paper. Place on center rack and bake at 200 F for about an hour and half. Turn off oven, let cool before removing. Store in an airtight container.