Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and for many of us, that means finding the perfect festive way to celebrate with friends, family, and significant others. This year, one of the most important considerations during your Valentine’s Day meal should be food and nutrition. Here are some ideas to make sure that your cupid-inspired feast is packed with nutrition along with the romance.

Salads and Appetizers

Healthy salads are an excellent way to start your meal. A sweet and salty take on a Caprese salad made with strawberries, bocconcini and a honey balsamic dressing is the perfect way to balance flavor. Artisan greens with roasted beets and blood orange segments will make your salad a centerpiece. Other starters like roasted brussel sprouts accessorized with bacon and your favorite nut (almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts) are sure to please.

Main Course

For the main course, opting for lean proteins and seasonal vegetables is a surefire way to keep nutrition levels up. Mediterranean-themed dishes such as lemon-herb salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and squash are hearty and flavorful, as well as nutrient-packed. Pesto-stuffed chicken is another tasty option. For vegetarian dishes, homemade ravioli filled with ricotta, spinach and mushrooms is sure to be a hit.

Desserts

Dessert should be light and healthy to end the meal on a sweet note. Yogurt panna cotta decorated with fresh berries and topped with a homemade raspberry sauce is a great low-calorie option. Alternatively, make your own love-inspired vegan truffles with cacao and coconut. For the real sweet tooth, an antioxidant-rich dark chocolate cake with a touch of cardamom for flavor is an ideal solution.

Drinks

There’s no better way to toast to love than with bubbly drinks. Champagne served with clementines, pomegranate juice, and mint sprigs is a light and refreshing sip. Or, kick it up a notch with a raspberry bellini. Or if you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, opt for a homemade lime spritzer adding copious amounts of strawberries and mint to make it extra special.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your special someone just how much they mean to you, while still taking into consideration nutrition. From salads to desserts, these Valentine’s Day food and nutrition ideas will create a delicious and healthy meal. So pour that glass of bubbly, and let the festivities begin!