Celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean over-the-top restaurant bills or complicated, high-stress cooking. These menu ideas from Chef Jess Rice of Budget Bytes prove that with a little creativity, you can enjoy a three-course experience that feels thoughtful, romantic, and incredibly delicious—all for just under $3 per serving.
Course 1: The Appetizer
Marinated Cheese
This easy, pretty, appetizer is a mix of sharp cheddar, pepperjack, and cream cheese in a zesty herb oil. Impressive.
Course 2: The Main Event
Tuscan Orzo
Tomatoes and spinach in an addictively creamy sauce makes a luscious spoon-ready main dish, perfect for when your partner deserves the attention. Made in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients, this one pan pasta dish serves 4 but is perfect for 2 (leftovers please). Pairs well with just about anything—baked tofu, chickpeas, white beans, seared chicken breasts, or sausage.
Course 3: The Dessert
Cherry Blondies
Fall in love with these fudgy, chewy Cherry Blondies. Fragrant, buttery, and studded with creamy white chocolate, tart cherries, and crunchy almonds, they’re sweet, a little flirty, and definitely not your typical blondie.