A heart-shaped box of heavenly chocolates? A bundle of fresh flowers and herbs? A sentimental note from a secret admirer? Which of Cupid’s arrows will you use to woo your special someone this Valentine’s Day?
My advice: Serve one of these desserts and your sweetheart will fall head over heels. Every recipe contains chocolate, a favorite aphrodisiac. Plus, each is infused with the intoxicating bouquet of a signature herb, hand-picked using Victorian floral dictionaries to deliver a specific sentiment. Whether your relationship is just budding or fully blossomed, you’ll find the perfectly scripted recipe to share with the one you love.
Is there a new love in your life? Try White Chocolate-Rose Geranium Ice Cream or Cocoa-Mint Sandwich Cookies for a subtle hint of friendliness or preference. If you’ve dated a while and want to move matters forward, make a statement of serious intentions with a basil-infused berry parfait. Or, if you’re ready for lasting commitment, choose either Milk Chocolate-Lavender Panna Cotta or Chocolate-Rosemary Torte to deliciously declare your loyalty.
Herb-Infused Valentine’s Day Sweets
• White Chocolate-Rose Geranium Ice Cream
• Milk Chocolate-Lavender Panna Cotta
• White Chocolate-Basil Mousse and Strawberry Parfait
Julia M. Usher is a food writer, recipe designer and food stylist in St. Louis.
Originally published in the February/ March 2007 issue of Herb Companion.
