The Perfect In-Home Valentine’s Day Meal

Chef John shares a delicious dinner menu, perfect for the griller who loves to impress on Valentine's Day.

Stay home this Valentine's Day and avoid the crowds, the germs, the wait, and the cost of a commercial evening out. Instead, surprise your loved one with a delightful meal cooked entirely on your recteq pellet grill. From a tantalizing appetizer to a sweet dessert, each course will be infused with rich flavors and an aromatic smokiness that only a recteq pellet grill can provide. Here are my favorite dishes that will make you the shining star this Valentine’s Day - complete with appetizer, entrée, salad, and a dessert that will impress your partner without keeping you in the kitchen all night.

Appetizer: Thai Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Start your romantic evening with grilled shrimp skewers marinated in garlic, lime juice, and fresh herbs. Simply toss peeled and deveined shrimp in sesame oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and lemongrass. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly charred. Serve with a homemade garlic aioli for dipping and watch your loved one’s eyes light up with every bite.

Entrée: Seared Steak with Garlic Butter

For the main course, nothing says romance like a perfectly cooked steak. Season ribeye or filet mignon steaks with Ben’s Heffer Dust, Chef Greg’s 4 Letter Rub, and recteq Beef Injection. For even more flavor, smoke the steaks on your recteq grill at 225°F until they reach an internal temperature of 120°F for medium-rare. Finish by searing them over high heat for a few minutes per side, basting with garlic herb butter during the last minute for that extra layer of flavor. Pair the steak with grilled asparagus for a touch of elegance.

Salad: Grilled Caesar Salad

Elevate your salad game with a grilled Caesar salad. Cut romaine hearts in half lengthwise and brush them lightly with olive oil. With your recteq preheated to 500°F, grill the romaine for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly charred. Top with homemade Caesar dressing, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons made from grilled bread. The combination of smoky flavors and creamy dressing will add a unique twist to this classic dish.

More Side Ideas

Dessert: Grilled Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream

For a sweet ending to this magical fest, serve grilled peach cobbler drizzled with Stevie’s Habanero Honey and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert is next level with sweet tender peaches and a smoke-kissed crumbled top. By adding a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction for an indulgent treat that makes the perfect wrap-up.

This Valentine’s Day, let your recteq pellet grill do the heavy lifting. From appetizer to dessert, each dish showcases the precision, versatility, and wood-fired flavor that set recteq apart. Skip the crowded restaurants, cook with confidence, and create an unforgettable at-home Valentine’s Day dinner, right from your backyard.