Valentine's Day Dinner

B and I have a tradition of making dinner at home for Valentine-versary. It just works better for us than trying to get reservations and beat the crowds. Plus, we have a killer pasta recipe that we love and wait all year for this weekend to come so that we can make it again. It's a very easy recipe, so even those who are beginner cooks should try it. I promise you won't be disappointed!



Penne and Vodka Sauce

1 16 oz box of penne (I also like the look of bow ties)

2 tablespoons butter
1/4 pound thinly sliced pancetta bacon, chopped
1/3 cup vodka
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (we use ff half and half)
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese




Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.


Meanwhile, melt butter or margarine in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pancetta, and saute until lightly browned. Add vodka and stir until it is reduced by half, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and cream. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir every few minutes.
Stir in pasta, and heat through. Serve with Parmesan cheese.



See...... easy peasy!!

Tomorrow night we are having it with a green salad and
this dressing

I have two dessert options on the table right now. Both involve chocolate. One is an old standard- chocolate lava cakes, and the other would be new to us. I'm not sure which we'll use. We'll have a cocktail while cooking and champagne with dinner. YUM! I can't wait for tomorrow night.



Are you going out or staying in? Do you have any fabulous "date night in" recipes that we should try?