Valentine's Day Ideas for your Sweet

Valentine's Day isn't something that I observe myself even though I do have a very special person in my life. I show and tell my husband each and every day how much I love him and value him, and I certainly don't relish occasions that make people feel compelled to dash off to the store to purchase things that aren't really needed, such as overpriced roses and treats, or spend an excess of money at expensive and crowded restaurants. My husband is very fortunate to get special meals and treats on a regular basis as part of my food blogging project and just because I like to provide good nourishing meals. And he likes to treat me too, all year round. But Valentine's Day is an excuse for many people to prepare special foods for their sweethearts, and if you're looking for ideas you may want to try some of these vegetarian recipes that will certainly illustrate your passion for your honey.

*I've updated this selection from last year and reposting to stimulate your senses.*

Let us start with some rather decadent sweets and desserts!

This is a new favorite, a rich, moist, flavorful and not-too-sweet Guinness Gingerbread Cake made with Guinness stout beer and fresh ginger.

This Blueberry Ricotta Cheesecake is a winner and a very special way to say I love you. If your sweetie likes cheesecake, you must try this recipe.

Cheesecake is always a favorite and I offer up this Goat Cheese Cheesecake with Mixed Berries that will earn you lots of hugs. One of my favorites.

Here is yet another cheesecake that is especially suitable for special occasions. This lovely Ricotta Cheesecake with Mixed Berries and Balsamic Vinegar is a perfect choice to end a special meal.

And of course there is chocolate. These Brownies with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Icing combine some of the finest ingredients for a most satisfying treat.

There is nothing more pleasing than a combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Your sweetie will be craving these homemade Peanut Butter Cups for months after tasting them.

Here is another special decadent treat that originated in Canada. These rich Nanaimo Bars will have your loved one's mouth watering, so best to hide them until after dinner.

Chocolate is usually a welcome treat for most of us and I warn you that these Peanut Butter Chocolate Squares should be eaten in moderation but self control with a plate of these in front of you will be a challenge indeed.

If you really want to spice things up, try these unique Cayenne Peanut Butter Cookies. I know my sweetie thought these were some of the best cookies he has ever eaten.

For a gluten-free treat, this Honey and Lemon Cake with Poppy Seeds should be on the top of your list. Honey for your honey.

This has long been a favorite apple dessert to bake up for my special one. Once you try this Caramelized Corsican Apple Tart, you will never forget it.

This Lemon Sponge Pudding is so pretty to look at and sure to please the palate of your honey. Romance = elegance.

Now for some special ideas for breakfast.

I can't think of a better way to start the day then with this Eye-Opening Blueberry French Toast. Warming and filling it can be prepared the night before and popped into the oven in the morning.

Light and chewy Pumpkin Gingerbread Waffles with a dark and rich molasses and gingerbread taste, these are a wonderful treat to share between the two of you on a special day, and the aroma is simply heavenly.

One of the tastiest breakfasts I have ever enjoyed with my sweetheart, if you enjoy some spice in your life, be sure to consider trying Indian-Style Baked Eggs Florentine.

These Baked Strawberry Pancakes are especially easy to make and a real delight for a very special breakfast.

For something a little different, give these scrumptious Egg Pakoras a try. Delicious anytime of day but truly a delightful breakfast.

If you and your loved one enjoy eggs and cheese then this Greek Feta and Olive Frittata will be sure to impress both of you.

For an extra jolt in the morning, these Jalapeño Breakfast Burritos are a must. Healthy and filling and you just know that if your sweetheart likes some heat, he will be asking for more.

Here is a good alternative for those who wish to enjoy a vegan breakfast with their mate. Give these Tempeh-Miso Breakfast Patties a try.

Finally, some ideas for a special candlelit dinner.

For a spicy and hot romantic dinner, these Chickpea Flour Dumplings Simmered in a Spicy Yogurt Sauce are a perfect way to share your love.

This Vegetarian Mushroom Bourguignon is ideal for serving to your sweetheart if he shares a passion for plump mushrooms simmered in a rich, thick and delicious red wine sauce.

Baked Gigantes Beans in Tomato Sauce served with a glass of robust red wine and some soothing music is a choice that must be considered for an enjoyable and relaxing evening meal for just the two of you.

Looking for a gorgeous and nourishing soup starter for your special meal? This White Bean and Mushroom Soup with Butternut Squash and Kale is everything you and your sweetheart could ask for.

One of my favorite dishes, if your valentine likes Indian food, you will have the key to their heart with this zesty and spicy Mung Beans with Paneer.

Perhaps potatoes don't sound like the most romantic of meals, but I assure you these Scalloped Potatoes with Best-Ever Mushroom Sauce are really rather gourmet when it comes to the versatile spud.

Everyone loves risottos, don't they? This Mushroom Risotto is a rich, earthy, creamy and perfect risotto to savor over dinner for two.

Served along with a tomato based chutney and side dish, these Spicy Chickpea Koftas combine into a meal that would certainly warm my heart.

You will find many more ideas to celebrate any occasion by browsing through the recipes that I have shared with readers including some nourishing and delicious side-dishes to go along with your meals. Though this list of suggestions was written for those in mind who enjoy Valentine's Day, I was considering creations for any special occasion or for no reason in particular except for wanting to have a lovely meal along with some delights to treat your loved ones.