Valentine's Day Cocktails

Saint Valentine’s Day is almost upon us, and love is in the air. What better way to get into the mood than to start off the evening with a cocktail or two? If things get a little spicy, of course, you can always opt to end the evening with a few mocktails. But, for now, let’s throw caution to the wind. I’m all about the cocktails!

If you’re preparing a homemade dinner for your honey this holiday, consider serving a few appetizers with specially-selected cocktails for the occasion. Think of it as a cocktail hour before dinner. What fun! If you’re planning to go all out for dinner, you don’t have to get crazy with the appetizers. Simple bread sticks or cheese and crackers will work just fine in a pinch. Just remember to serve them up in a fancy heart-shaped dish!

Here are a few ideas to help you starti your Valentine’s Day off with a cocktail in hand:

Champagne and strawberries – It doesn’t get much easier than this. Just serve some chilled champagne (in champagne flutes, of course) and drop a slice of strawberry into each glass. Again, it’s simple; but doesn’t it just ooze romance?

Besame – Besa me means “kiss me” in Spanish. So, with this drink, you might get a little kiss along with your cocktail. It’s made with raspberries, Chambord, fruit juice, and a tequila liqueur called Agavero. Agavero has been known for centuries as a potent aphrodisiac, so the kissing may come naturally after a few sips.

Raspberry Chocolate Kiss Martini – Really, any pink or red martini will do the trick; even a cosmo. But I just liked the name, and I thought chocolate and Valentine’s Day have such a natural connection. Why not serve it along with your appetizers?

Personally, if I can find the Agavero, I’ll definitely be making a few Besames on Tuesday. Of course, since my husband is a tax accountant and this is his busy season, we’ll have to take it easy on the Besames, but we’ll have one or two, for sure.

What’s your cocktail of choice?