Romantic Dinner for Two The French are very passionate about their food and wine, and with good reason. Despite the fast pace of modern times, a good meal remains an important part of the French culture. Food, wine, long leisurely meals and good conversation define the good life of France. Taking the basics from classical French recipes and utilizing some shortcuts for simplifying the dishes for the home cook is helpful. Many of these dishes can be prepared in advance. Just refrigerate overnight and reheat on Valentine’s Day. In the southern regions of France, most of the cooking is done with olive oil rather than butter, due to the large number of olive trees in Provence. We will use a lot of olive oil in these recipes. But first we will begin the evening by dipping a slice of French bread into creamy baked Brie with delicious garlic-infused honey and walnut sauce. Then a savory French onion soup, delicious
Provencal-style mussels, and a hearty ratatouille. There is also a recipe for lamb using olive oil and herbs de Provence ~ roasting it to serve with a rich Pinot Noir sauce. It is important to use a high quality olive oil for this menu. 67