Planning a romantic dinner for two? Or perhaps you're simply looking for some delicious and manageable meal ideas for a quiet night in? Whatever the occasion, cooking for two can be incredibly rewarding. This post will present three delicious meal options, perfect for intimate settings and easy on the cleanup. We'll cover everything from preparation to presentation, ensuring your next meal is a memorable one.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Lemon-Dill Sauce
This elegant yet straightforward meal is perfect for a special occasion. The bright flavors of the lemon-dill sauce complement the richness of the salmon and the delicate sweetness of the asparagus.
What you'll need:
- Two 6-ounce salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- While asparagus roasts, heat remaining olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt.
- Drizzle lemon-dill sauce over the cooked salmon. Serve immediately with roasted asparagus.
How long does it take to cook pan-seared salmon?
Cooking time for pan-seared salmon depends on the thickness of the fillet and your preferred level of doneness. Generally, 3-4 minutes per side for medium is a good starting point. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. It's quick to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with flavor.
What you'll need:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
What kind of pasta is best for creamy tomato sauce?
Almost any pasta shape works well with a creamy tomato sauce! Penne, rotini, farfalle, and even shells are excellent choices. Choose a shape that you enjoy and that you think will hold the sauce well.
Steak with Garlic Herb Butter and Roasted Potatoes
A classic for a reason! This meal is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual weeknight meal. The roasted potatoes add a satisfying crunch, while the garlic herb butter elevates the steak to the next level.
What you'll need:
- Two 6-ounce steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or your favorite cut)
- 1 pound small potatoes, halved or quartered
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or a mix), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.
- While potatoes roast, prepare garlic herb butter by combining softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
- Season steaks with salt and pepper. Sear steaks in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
- Top cooked steaks with garlic herb butter. Serve immediately with roasted potatoes.
How do you make a steak perfectly medium-rare?
Achieving a perfect medium-rare steak involves paying attention to the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
These are just three ideas to get you started. Feel free to adapt them to your liking and dietary needs. The most important ingredient in any meal is the company you share it with! Enjoy!
