Last minute romance

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Posted at 12:02PM, 12 February 2013 by Roxanne Fisher - Writer/Sub-editor, bbcgoodfood.com

Short on time but want to show you care? Our three romantic menus are ready in an hour or less from chop to serve - perfect for some after-work-wooing...

For the classic Cupid...

If your beau is the traditional type, this menu will wow without keeping you in the kitchen all night - just add fizz...

To start - Oysters with oriental dressing
Buy your oysters pre-shucked and (lovingly) throw together this sophisticated starter. After all, you know what they say about oysters...
Ready in: 15 minutes
Oysters with oriental dressing

The main event - Rump steak with quick mushroom & red wine sauce
Pan-frying seasoned steaks is a quick-win whatever the time of year. The accompanying boozy sauce makes this a rich and decadent dinner, and special enough for the 'official' day of romance.
Ready in: 15 minutes
Rump steak with quick mushroom & red wine sauce

To finish - Sweetheart choc & hazelnut sandwiches
Arm yourself with a large, heart-shaped cutter and your romantic potential goes through the roof. These brioche beauties look impressive but are ready in no time at all.
Ready in: 10 minutes
Sweetheart choc & hazelnut sandwiches

Total time: 40 minutes

For the loving vegetarian...

If you're creating a veggie supper for the one you love, pull together a sharing starter, creamy main and zingy pudding - meat-free magic...

To start - Veggie Chinese pancakes
Have fun wrapping and rolling your favourite vegetarian fare in these thin pancakes - it's good to share.
Ready in: 25 minutes
Veggie Chinese pancakes

The main event - Mushroom & thyme risotto
Minimal chopping makes this creamy risotto recipe the time-poor chef's dish of choice - a mix of risotto rice and quinoa adds texture and a nutty flavour.
Ready in: 30 minutes
Mushroom & thyme risotto

To finish - Quick mango pudding
Serve your better half this tropical treat, complete with generous helpings of creamy dairy and fresh, sweet fruit.
Ready in 5 minutes
Quick mango pudding

Total time: 1 hour

Food to get you in the mood...

If you're a believer in the seductive power of certain foods, pull together our menu of aphrodisiac dishes...

To start - Figs with prosciutto
Let's get figgy! Get this speedy canapé-style starter on the table with just five ingredients and five minutes - a tempting blend of salt and sweet.
Ready in 5 minutes
Figs with prosciutto

The main event - Lobster with Thermidor butter
Shellfish are considered a classic aphrodisiac, and no more than the posh lobster, synonymous with decadent dining. Buy yours ready-cooked and serve topped with homemade Thermidor butter.
Ready in 30 minutes
Lobster with Thermidor butter

To finish - Chocolate & berry mousse
Whether or not it's laden with love-inducing powers, chocolate certainly holds undertones of romance. Serve this fuss-free pud with sliced strawberries for added aphrodisiac benefits.
Ready in 20 minutes
Chocolate & berry mousse pots

Total time: 55 minutes

What will be cooking in your kitchen this Valentine's Day? Share the love below.

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