Are you planning a romantic dinner for two this Valentine’s Day—but what to keep it as healthy as possible? If so, you’ll need to skip that French restaurant (unless you want to ingest 3X your daily calories), and opt for a comfy and cozy dinner at home. We’ve got one delicious recipe, and some super simple ways to cut down the calories, fat and carbs with some fun additions! Enjoy!
Bacon Wrapped Sirloin and Vegetables
Use this meal to keep the carbs away, and your partner will think you slaved all day making this beautiful meal. All you will need is two sirloin steaks, four strips of bacon, a pound of green beans, 1 Tbsp. of butter, 2 Tbsp. of olive oil, lemon pepper and salt. Start by trimming the green beans (snap off the ends and cut them into bite sized pieces), and reserve them on a plate until later. For each steak, season them with salt and pepper. Then, wrap two pieces of bacon around the length of the steak and pin it with a few toothpicks so they stay in place.
Boil a large pot of water for the beans, and boil them for about 15 minutes, or until desired tenderness. Coat with olive oil, and lemon pepper. Set aside while you cook the steaks. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees, and heat up a cast iron skillet to medium. Add the butter and olive oil to the skillet, and allow the steaks to cook for about 2-3 minutes. Flip them to the other side and let them cook for another 2 minutes. Place them in the oven for another 7-10 minutes.
If green beans aren’t your thing, here are some alternative veggie dishes you can make:
• Polenta. Polenta is a healthie alternative to mashed potatoes, because you can cut out all of the butter and cream. Many grocery stores sell made-to-order polenta (just cook in a little bit of olive oil, season and you’re ready to go!)
• Sweet potatoes. Make baked potatoes with higher nutrients by substituting good old potatoes for sweet potatoes instead. Add some fresh herbs such as chives or rosemary on your baked potato, and steamed broccoli.
• Crack Cauliflower. This cauliflower got its name from being so addictive! All you need is a head of cauliflower, olive oil (just enough to drizzle it and coat all over), 3 garlic cloves, 1 tsp. cumin and ¼ tsp. pepper flakes. Preheat your oven to 450, and line everything on a baking sheet (cut up cauliflower, drizzled olive oil, crushed up garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to taste.) Cook for 20-25 minutes, and serve hot with your steak!
Valentine’s Day is about spending time with a loved one. It doesn’t have to mean going overboard with your calories! All you really need is one delicious meal that will spare you some carbs and calories. Enjoy your day, and enjoy this meal. It’s a win/win your significant other will love you for!
