So, you’ve got a date. Amazing. Maybe it’s with your long-term partner, or it’s with someone new. Cooking for someone is a great act of service to show that you care about them, and it creates a more intimate date experience than going to a restaurant or bar. It also gives you the opportunity to show off some of your chef skills, and give your date a night to remember.
The Basics
Let’s start with the basics. You want to make sure your home is clean, smells great, and is a good reflection of your best self. First impressions are important when it comes to dating, and the last thing you want is for your date to feel uncomfortable.
Consider lighting a candle for added ambience, and playing some relaxing music in the background. Anything you can do to set a warm mood will pay off, and create a more intimate environment. It’s also important to remember that even if the date is happening at your home, you don’t want to come on too strong. Being in someone else’s space can be intimidating for some people, and you want to make sure they feel welcome and safe.
Dealing with Pre-Date Jitters
Dates can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s with someone new. It’s completely normal to feel nervous, excited or both. Remember that you want this person to like you for your true, authentic self. The best thing you can do is be true to who you are and show what you have to offer someone.
Learn more about how to deal with any anxious thoughts here, and don’t forget to give yourself the pep talk that you deserve. You got this!
The Food
Now, for the food. There are plenty of different romantic meals out there that are perfect for date night. To try and make things as seamless as possible, avoid foods that may be awkward to eat (for example, crab legs or something that involves lots of bones). Don’t forget to ask your date if they have any allergies, or favourite foods to help you decide what to make. We want to make sure that they can eat whatever you whip up.
Don’t try to outdo yourself. If you have a signature dish that you’ve mastered, try making that. Many people get too invested in being impressive and making something overly elaborate and end up getting stressed right before their date arrives. You want to make sure that when you open up the door, you seem composed and as cool as a cucumber.
The internet is your oyster. There are tons of recipes online for easy date-night meals that will melt your honey’s heart. Remember that as long as you put love and care into your meal, they will love it. The most important part of the night is spending time together, and getting to know each other on a deeper level. And who knows? Maybe next time they’ll want to return the favour and cook for you.
About The Guest Writer
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
