Yemi Adelekan is a food writer and blogger who was a semi-finalist in the 2022 series of BBC TV’s Masterchef competition.

Every Saturday Yemi writes on the Stray Ferret about her love of the area’s food and shares cooking tips – please get in touch with her if you want her to review a restaurant, visit your farm, taste the produce you sell or even share a recipe.

Valentine’s Day is all about showing love, and while flowers and chocolates are classic, nothing quite says “I love you” like a home-cooked meal.

Growing up, I watched my mum, and aunties pour love into every dish they made. Whether it was a simple pot of Jollof rice or a carefully stewed pot of vegetable soup, the message was always clear: I want you to enjoy this meal, and I want you to be here to share many more meals with me.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s skip the store-bought heart-shaped chocolates and dive into home-cooked dishes that are both indulgent and nourishing. 

This year, why not try some homemade treats that are as thoughtful as they are delicious? And you will save some money too.

Here are some ‘Sweet Ideas’ that will ‘Love You Back’

Let’s start with something sweet—because that’s what Valentine’s Day is about, but we’re keeping it smart and heart-friendly.

Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with a Twist

Now, I know what you’re thinking - strawberries and chocolate? It’s not groundbreaking but hear me out. Swap out the usual milk chocolate for rich, antioxidant-packed dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa). Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, a pinch of sea salt, or even a dusting of cayenne pepper, ginger or ancho chillies if you’re feeling adventurous.

The result is a treat that’s sweet, spicy, and just a little unexpected - kind of like love itself.

Berry & Chia Parfait

Layer Greek yogurt (full of probiotics and protein) with some berry compote, a mix of fresh berries - strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries and a spoonful of chia seeds. Not only does this look like a Valentine’s dream in a glass, but it’s also packed with heart-healthy omega-3s. Top it off with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nutty granola for that perfect crunch.

Baked Pears with Honey and Walnuts

This is simple recipe that feels incredibly fancy. Halve ripe pears, scoop out a bit of the centre, and fill with crushed walnuts, a drizzle of honey, and a pinch of cinnamon.

Bake until soft and caramelised. It’s warm, comforting, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without being heavy. Serve with a scoop of ice cream.

Savoury Dishes That Say ‘I Care’

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about dessert. A savoury meal can be just as romantic, especially when it’s packed with flavour and made with love.

Grilled Salmon with a Pomegranate Glaze

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are amazing for heart health. Pair that with a sweet-tart pomegranate glaze, and you’ve got a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve with a side of quinoa or giant couscous tossed with roasted veggies for a meal that feels fancy but is secretly super easy to make.

Steak and ‘Chips’

For me, nothing says I love you more than a well seasoned and cooked steak seared to perfection served with potatoes – fries, chips, fondant potatoes, Boulangere or dauphinoise potatoes all sound indulgent and perfect to celebrate a loved one.

Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes which are packed with vitamins and fibre, making them a perfect base for a healthy Valentine’s meal. You can roast them until tender, scoop out and mash before refilling the shell. Top up with some beautiful garnish. Sweet potato fries also pairs well with steak.

Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad

Beetroot’s deep red hue is practically screaming Valentine’s Day. 

Toss roasted beetroot with peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and a handful of toasted walnuts. Drizzle with a balsamic-honey reduction for that perfect sweet-tangy balance. It’s fresh, vibrant, and light enough to leave room for dessert.

You can also cook giant couscous in fresh squeezed beetroot juice for a stunning base dish that will work well with roasted vegetables, fish or beef.

Two bean casserole with pan roasted potatoes with Halibut

A simple and sexy dish using pantry staples is a spiced and bean casserole using a can each of chickpeas and haricot beans cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric and tomato paste. Cook with some stock until soft and serve as is or use a masher to break it down to create a chunky consistency.

Top with pan roasted potato cubes and some fish. I serve mine with Halibut cooked in seaweed butter with Aleppo chillies, sumac and pink Szechuan peppers.

Love That Lasts

Food has always been my love language. From the bustling kitchens of my childhood in Nigeria to the cosy dinners I now cook in Yorkshire, every meal is an opportunity to connect, share, and show love.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s move away from fleeting gestures and create nourishing meals together because love isn’t just about today—it’s about all the tomorrows we want to share. So, cook with your heart, feed with love, and let every bite say, I need you healthy, happy, and here with me for as long as possible.

Don’t forget, “Cooking is love made visible.” – Anonymous. 

Let your food speak louder than words and do let me know what you will be cooking this Valentine’s Day.