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Chocolate, Wine and Romance
Good for You and Your Love Life
By Kelly Burgess
So don't feel guilty about the occasional dark chocolate or red wine indulgence!
Cheri Sicard agrees that many special occasion foods are more healthful than they perhaps are perceived. As the founder of FabulousFoods.com, she has suggestions for delightfully decadent foods that are as good for you as they are good.
Her first recommendation is for chocolate dipped strawberries, which are a traditional romantic indulgence (think Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman). To accompany the strawberries she recommends a good cabernet. It will blend with the flavor of strawberry and chocolate without overwhelming either.
"Do be sure that everything involved in making the strawberries is completely dry or the chocolate will get grainy," says Sicard. "After washing the berries and draining them, it's a good idea to wipe them down with a paper towel just to make sure there's no hidden moisture."
For special romantic evenings, Sicard suggests foods that are delicious but healthy and not overly heavy. "You want to have some energy left for romance," says Sicard.
Furthermore, romance isn't just about food. Alanna Webb is the founder of LoveStories.com, a site devoted to those interested in reading and writing about romance. She knows a little something about a romantic dinner, but says that it should involve all five senses, not just that of taste.
"Romance is all about feeding all five senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, feel. It is that basic," says Webb. "Imagine a romantic living room setting: candlelight (sight), candles (smell), soft music (hearing), chocolate-covered strawberries (taste) and a soft chenille blanket (feel)."
Webb also notes that everyone's idea of romance is different and there's no substitutefor really knowing your significant other. "Jot down a list of items that your partner loves," she says. "Anything that comes to mind. It can be hobbies, movie actors, food, activities, restaurants, colors, flowers, perfume, past dates, etc. Look at this list; open your mind to the possibilities. Create your own special day. Don't aim for 'perfect.' Aim for thoughtful!"