Happy Valentine's Day to You!
Here's a menu you can make just for you with great leftovers. This post features big double lamb chops that are grilled first and then finished in the oven; a piquant tapenade tops them at the table. Meantime, you'll oven-roast large, whole carrots laced with ground cumin. There's a make-ahead green bean salad you'll fix again and again and I also give suggestions for wine and tiny, light desserts. Don't want leftovers? Cut the amounts in half for a one-time dinner. Don't want to eat alone? Invite a friend or neighbor; there's plenty.
.Start with a beautiful sparkler that needn't cost much. I heartily recommend a New Mexico sparkling wine such as Gruet rather than splurging on French champagne. Despite all, I've found sparklers do keep a day two. Or, if you'd like, choose a half-bottle of a very special sparkling wine from the wine shop. Add some of the tapenade with baguette or crackers or a bowl of great potato chips--my favorite sparkler pairing. Stay away from cheese; fresh vegetables would work wonderfully. Just stick with something light; lamb is loving, but filling.
If you're cooking for just you, open the wine, turn on the music, set the table, and enjoy a beautiful night. Afterward, get out that novel you've been meaning to read and take it to bed with you along with the last glass of wine. You could write letters or cards to a few people you adore; make yourself post them in the morning. Whatever you do, have fun cooking and taking care of yourself!
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