You may have noticed the word "paleo" in the title of this post. Let's just get this out there now: I personally am not paleo, nor do I ever plan to become paleo. I love chickpeas and quinoa and cheese waaaaaaaaaay too much!!!
But, that said, I got together with a group of lovely other healthy food bloggers and we came up with a fabulous health(ier) Valentine's menu that just happens to be paleo.
Instead of focusing on what you CAN'T eat on the paleo diet (beans, grains, dairy), let's talk about the wonderful things you CAN eat (lean meats, nuts, and veggies galore!!). This menu is sophisticated, delicious, totally doable, and will appeal to anyone, paleo or not.
The Appetizer:
Walnut Encrusted Sea Scallops by Kelly @ Nosh and Nourish
There's just something so sophisticated (and sexy!!) about sea scallops. Maybe because they're slightly expensive and unique?! Regardless, this is THE way to prepare them. The walnut crust creates a fabulous crunch, and the sweet honey mustard sauce balances the nutty flavor perfectly. Get the Walnut Encrusted Sea Scallops recipe here.
The Cocktail:
Grapefruit & Blood Orange Mocktail by Lee @ Fit Foodie Finds
It's simple, citrusy, and delicious with only 4 ingredients: Blood Orange, Grapefruit, Coconut Sugar, and Water (ice too!). You always have the option to add a little splash of rum to spice things up a bit! Get the Grapefruit & Blood Orange Mocktail recipe here.
The Side Dish:
Lemon Ginger Asparagus w/Toasted Almonds by Davida @ The Healthy Maven
Full of citrusy flavor, nutty crunch, and a blend of spices, this is no boring asparagus! Get the Lemon Ginger Asparagus recipe here.
The Main Dish:
Easy Roast Lamb Shoulder by Olena @ iFoodReal
You don't need expert cooking skills to roast a lamb. It's super easy: rinse, poke, cover with juice and spices, bake, and devour. Get the Easy Roast Lamb recipe here.
The Dessert:
Flourless Chocolate Cake by Lexi @ Lexi's Clean Kitchen
It is rich and heavenly, everything a flourless cake should be. Plus, it is topped with a delicious berry sauce that ties it all together. Get the Flourless Chocolate Cake recipe here.
Pick and choose a few of the courses, or make them all! They coordinate nicely. But above all else, enjoy that special day with the one you love!