Never.

Food is never merely a matter of sustenance. Whether it's a dish that evokes a fond childhood memory, a shared excitement over a trending recipe, or the anticipation of future gatherings, food transcends its basic purpose to nourish. It serves as a conduit for stories, linking us to others and to the rich tapestry of human experience.

This is never more true than the interaction of food with romance, especially when you are preparing a special meal for your partner (or hope-to-be-partner).

This week's video explores 25 different romantic menus to help you enhance your own story this Valentine's Day.

I will confess that permission to indulge freely in chocolate , strawberries, and champagne is probably my favorite part of Valentine's Day. Have you ever wondered why we savor these indulgences on February 14? I explain the history below.

This week's coupon is for 20% off a Cestari Massage ball - treat yourself or gift it to a loved one. ❤️

Whether you are celebrating with a partner, a friend, or pampering yourself, I hope that the menus, tips, and information in this week's newsletter enriches your celebration.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Best,

Susan

Valentine's Day  is synonymous not just with expressions of love and affection but is inextricably linked with chocolate, strawberries, and champagne. Let's uncover the origins and stories behind the connection of these foods to Valentine's Day.

Chocolate: A Symbol of Love and Luxury

The connection between chocolate and Valentine's Day is as rich and complex as the chocolate itself. This love affair dates back to the Aztecs, who considered chocolate a source of strength and aphrodisiac powers. However, it wasn't until the 17th century in Europe that chocolate began to be linked with love and romance, when it became fashionable among the nobility to gift chocolates to one's beloved in elaborate, ornate boxes.

The tradition of giving chocolate as a sign of affection took on new dimensions in the Victorian era. Richard Cadbury, of the Cadbury chocolate company, is credited with creating the first box of Valentine's Day chocolates in 1861, packaging them in heart-shaped boxes adorned with cupids and roses. This gesture of gifting chocolates has since evolved into a hallmark of Valentine's Day, symbolizing sweetness and deep affection.

Strawberries: Red, Ripe, and Romantic

Strawberries have long been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love, owing to their heart shape and red color. This connection makes strawberries a natural choice for a Valentine's Day treat. In medieval times, strawberries were served at important state banquets and celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and peace. They were also believed to bring happiness and love.

The pairing of strawberries and cream became a symbol of luxury and celebration in Tudor England, further cementing strawberries' status as a food of love. Today, strawberries dipped in chocolate or served with whipped cream are quintessential Valentine's Day delicacies, embodying the simplicity and sweetness of love.

Champagne: Toasting to Love

Champagne, the sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France, has long been associated with celebrations and special occasions. Its connection to Valentine's Day is a testament to its status as a symbol of luxury, success, and romance. The tradition of toasting with champagne dates back to the 17th century, when the wine became associated with the anointment of French kings, lending it an air of prestige and celebration.

The effervescence of champagne, with its delicate bubbles and refined taste, makes it a perfect drink for toasting to love and life's special moments. Its association with Valentine's Day reflects the desire to celebrate love in a manner that is both sophisticated and joyful, marking the occasion with a sense of elegance and festivity.

A Culinary Tapestry Woven with Love

This Valentine's Day, whether you're indulging in a box of fine chocolates, enjoying a bowl of fresh strawberries, or raising a glass of sparkling champagne, remember the centuries of tradition and love that these foods represent. In the act of sharing these delights, we partake in a celebration that transcends time, honoring the universal language of love through the culinary arts.

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• • Emma from New York writes, "My favorite Valentine's Day memory is the first time my partner made me homemade truffles. He's not much of a cook, but he spent the whole afternoon melting chocolate, shaping them, and even dusting them with cocoa powder. It was messy, imperfect, and absolutely the sweetest thing. We've made it a tradition to make them together every year since."

    Luis from Texas shares, "I'll never forget the Valentine's Day my wife and I decided to stay in and cook together instead of fighting the crowds at a restaurant. We made a three-course meal, but the highlight was definitely the strawberry shortcake we made from scratch. It wasn't just about the food, but the laughter and love we shared in the kitchen. That night remains one of my most cherished memories."

    Hannah from Michigan recalls, "Growing up, my mom would always make heart-shaped pancakes for us on Valentine's Day morning. She'd add red food coloring to make them pink and top them with strawberries and whipped cream. It was such a simple gesture, but it made us feel so loved and special. Now that I have kids of my own, I've continued the tradition."

    Carlos from Florida reminisces, "The best Valentine's Day I ever had was when my girlfriend surprised me with a picnic in the park. She packed all my favorites, but the homemade chocolate-covered strawberries were the highlight. It was such a thoughtful and romantic gesture, especially since she remembered that I mentioned once how much I loved them as a kid."

    Sophie from Oregon says, "Last Valentine's Day, my partner and I decided to break away from the traditional dinner and instead did a champagne tasting at home. We each picked out a bottle we thought the other would love and spent the evening sampling them with various cheeses and chocolates. It turned into an evening of discovery, not just of new flavors but also learning more about each other's preferences. It was intimate, unique, and something we plan to do every year now."

WOULD YOU LIKE A MINI TURNTABLE?

We'll be focusing on how you share love through food throughout February.  We'd love to feature some of your best tips, tricks, memories, and stories. Please let us know what you know!  You can submit your thoughts by replying to this newsletter, or sending them directly to  support@cestarikitchen.com with the subject "Newsletter - February."  Every subscriber whose contribution we use will receive our mini turntable as our thank you gift.

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