Valentine's Day comes around every year and while we might not all run to the kitchen to whip up something fabulous, that's not to say that there aren't recipe favorites that pop up every year. According to BBC Good Food, there are just some dishes that people can't stay away from on this love-filled day. The most popular dishes might surprise you while others just echo the recipes of the past, remaining solid couple favorites year after year. The most surprising thing, however, is the fact that not every food on this list is something sweet - in fact, the most cooked recipes are all savory, with many of them being dinner dishes as opposed to breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
If you've cooked any of these for your loved one, you're not alone. And if you haven't yet, then what are you waiting for? They're popular for a reason!
Dauphinoise Potatoes
Similar but not to be confused with the delicious potatoes gratin that comes from France, Dauphinoise potatoes are almost the same with a different preparation method and a few (good) changes.
These baked potatoes are thinly sliced and layered in such a way that makes the presentation fancy and elegant, while a creamy, delicious sauce is poured over them, usually flavored with rosemary, thyme, and butter. It's decadent and rich and the fresh herbs add a level of aromatics that will make the entire kitchen feel as though it's somewhere in the middle of the French countryside.
Steak With Peppercorn Sauce
There's something about peppercorns that absolutely scream to be mated with a medium-rare steak. The spicy, bold flavor of freshly-cracked pepper stands up so well to the meaty, smoky, savory flavor of a grilled steak. The buttery texture of a medium or medium-rare steak is a great contrast to the crunch of each peppercorn, with an explosion of flavor happening in each bite.
When seasoned properly, a peppercorn sauce can unite creamy and spicy in a way that no other sauce can quite add up to. The trick is to use fresh peppercorns, though - don't try and get away with the flaky, pre-ground pepper from the grocery store.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Not surprisingly, data shows that more and more people are looking for vegetarian alternatives to their traditional Valentine's Day meals.
With vegetarianism and veganism on the rise and healthier eating coming to the forefront of most cuisines, it's not surprising in the slightest. This means that more hearty and filling salads are becoming date-night meals and protein alternatives are taking centerstage as the main component in a dinner dish.
Cupcakes
From our childhood days in grade school all the way up to our adult years, it seems that cupcakes have always been the one constant in our lives when it comes to celebratory treats. They marked the period during class when we could relax and let off some steam while indulging in some chocolate and vanilla cupcakes and now, as adults, there are plenty of gourmet cupcake options to choose from.
These miniature cakes are still abundantly popular during this sweet holiday, and with so many gluten-free and sugar-free options to choose from, they'll likely continue to be one of the most popular desserts.
Beef Wellington
Obviously, beef has quite a reputation for taking the spotlight on Valentine's Day. Beef Wellington is one of those dishes that aims to impress people without even having to try too hard.
There's nothing like a tender cut of beef wrapped up in a buttery, slightly sweet pastry, with a spread of mushrooms, onions, and good mustard to finish. The flavors are on point, it's not all too challenging of a dish, and it's a fancy way to say 'I love you' with food.
Sea Bass
A dish that is a surprise is sea bass. This fish is gaining in popularity and it's become more widely available, and with so many people warming up to the idea of preparing food at home, this delicious fish has become a welcome centerpiece.
Sea bass is a tender, flaky, light fish that holds up well to the expectations of a grand dinner on Valentine's Day. It's an easy fish to cook with and one that's liked by most people, including those who aren't fully sold on seafood.
Strawberry Cheesecake
There's something somewhat romantic about strawberries and when most people think of strawberries and desserts, their thoughts go to cheesecake... Or strawberry shortcake, but that didn't make the list of popular Valentine's Day dinners.
Cheesecake, in itself, is decadent and appealing, and a healthy topping of strawberries only adds to the bright, fresh, fruitiness of an already perfect dessert. It's even more perfect when you're sharing it with another person.