Valentine’s Day is all about love, connection, and, let’s be honest—good food. But before you start eyeing that heart-shaped box of chocolates, let’s talk about a way to celebrate love without derailing your health goals. This year, ditch the heavy, sugar-loaded dinners and choose a delicious, nutritious meal you and your partner can cook together. Because what’s more romantic than teamwork in the kitchen? (Well… maybe a good post-dinner massage, but we’ll stick to the food for now.)

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Dinner: Seared Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Garlic Roasted Asparagus

This dish has heart-healthy omega-3s, fiber-rich veggies, and just enough natural sweetness to keep things flirty. Plus, it’s easy to make—so you’ll enjoy the meal (and each other) more than stressing over the stove.

Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
– 2 salmon fillets (wild-caught if possible)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– ½ tsp paprika

For the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze:
– ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
– ½ tsp Dijon mustard
– Pinch of salt

For the Garlic Roasted Asparagus:
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little spice)

Directions:

1. Prep the Glaze
Combine the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat over medium heat. Simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the strawberries break down and the sauce thickens. Mash the berries slightly for a smoother texture. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Roast the Asparagus
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.

3. Cook the Salmon
While the asparagus roasts, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

4. Plate & Serve
Drizzle the warm strawberry balsamic glaze over the salmon and serve alongside the roasted asparagus. Light a candle, pour sparkling water with fresh berries, and enjoy a meal that fuels your body and love.

Why This Meal Wins at Love & Nutrition
– Salmon supports heart health and brain function, so you’ll love each other longer and remember why you fell in love.
– Strawberries are full of antioxidants and are a natural aphrodisiac. Enough said.
– Asparagus is rich in fiber and vitamins, making you feel good from the inside out.

So this Valentine’s Day, skip the sugar crash and the food coma. Cook up this delicious, nutrient-packed meal together and end the night feeling just as amazing as you did when you started. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, follow it up with some dark chocolate-covered strawberries—because balance is key, and love always deserves a little sweetness.