As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m sure many of you are ruminating on how to plan your romantic evening. In general, I find nothing more romantic than a picnic under the stars, but there are plenty of ways to set the mood when wintry weather calls for dining indoors.

Don’t hesitate to cook - loud, overcrowded restaurants with prix fixe menus aren’t the only way to spend the evening. Remember, the way to anyone’s heart is through the stomach and everyone likes to have someone else cook for them. When planning the menu for special occasions, I find it’s always best to keep your food simple. Stick with recipes you’re comfortable with and love to make – your pleasure will come through in the food. And it’s important to make dishes that make you feel good – anything too heavy will leave you feeling less than amorous.

Whether you cook your own sweet or you buy something ahead of time, eating dessert is an indulgent pleasure and the perfect segue into the rest of your evening. There’s no shame in leaving it to professionals, just be sure not to overlook the last course. Chocolate treats or anything eaten with your bare hands will set right mood.

Speaking of which, don’t forget that the planning doesn’t stop at the kitchen – you’re responsible for the ambiance, too. Dim the lights and choose a setting that feels intimate – a dining nook, in front of the fireplace, anywhere that will stimulate conversation and keep you close. Bright lights and a large, empty dining table will feel too cold and stark.

And finally, don’t stuff yourself. Go slow and enjoy the evening. If you focus on the food in your mouth and the conversation, you’ll find the rest of the evening will take care of itself.

How are you spending your special evening?