Chronicle Books Blog

Valentine’s Day has always meant one thing to me: spending time with people you love. In my single days, this meant sending cards to family and throwing parties for all my friends. There’s nothing that gives me greater joy than bringing good souls together and feeding them well. No matter if you’re a swinging single or Sadie the Married Lady—being healthy and sexy can be a snap with these simple tips:

-The right mix of protein, healthy carbs, and essential fatty acids will power you through the night and control your chocolate cravings. Serve up simply prepared options to your guests so they can pick and choose what appeals to them.

-For an uber-simple appetizer, serve guacamole sprinkled with pomegranate arils (seeds) with organic blue corn chips and veggies. You can buy store-bought guacamole and “doctor” it by adding 1 fresh avocado and 2 drops of Tabasco sauce.

-Another great appetizer is organic smoked salmon rolled up around avocado slices or whipped cream cheese and fresh dill. The omega-3s will leave your skin glowing, and your mood frisky!

-Skewer chicken or cubed lamb with tomatoes and yellow pepper. Lightly brush with olive oil and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Serve with satay sauce.

-Slice up fresh, organic mozzarella with tomatoes and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

-Pair up these luscious nibbles with a signature drink for the night. The Gorgeous-tini is always a crowd pleaser:
3/4 cup vodka
1/3 cup triple sec
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/3 cup pomegranate juice
Fill a pitcher with ice. Add vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and pomegranate juice. Stir until well combined and thoroughly chilled.

-For dessert, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries, or treat yourself and your guests to a box of your favorite gourmet chocolates. It’s well worth the indulgence!

Happy Valentine’s Day, and Stay Gorgeous!
Esther

Send some gorgeous-ness to your favorite gal pals—click here for some pretty Valentine e-cards.