It is said that one of the ways to make people fall in love is through the palate, we all know that food has a special power to form connections between people and thus create unforgettable moments.

But not all people have cooking skills, sometimes we use too much salt or end up burning the entire dish, but don't worry, because if you are like me then this article will be of great help to you. Since if you are looking to surprise your partner with an unforgettable homemade dinner and your culinary skills are not good, here we will present you with easy recipes that will help you impress your partner.

Why is it said that you can conquer with your stomach?

The phrase "conquer with the stomach" is not just a popular saying. Cooking for someone can be a sign of love and care.

Food has the ability to awaken emotions and memories, transport us to happy moments and create new sensory experiences. Sharing a delicious dinner with someone special creates an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for connecting on a deeper level.

Additionally, cooking for someone is a way to show love and attention. Taking time and effort to prepare a special dish for your partner tells them how much you love them and how much you care about their well-being.

A well-prepared dish not only satisfies the appetite, but can also be a complete sensory experience that strengthens the connection between the two.

Ideal menu ideas to make your partner fall in love with you

Hot starters

A homemade consommé is an excellent option to start dinner, since it is simple to prepare and is always comforting. To give it a special touch and make it more appetizing, you can add some sprinkles. For example, small cubes of a good ham, small cubes of chicken breast if it is a meat or chicken soup, or even some prawns if it is a fish or seafood soup. These additional ingredients not only add flavor, but also improve the texture of the dish, making it more interesting and flavorful.

cold starters

If you prefer a cold starter, which is very practical because you can prepare it in advance, make sure you know your partner's tastes well to ensure that they will enjoy the dish. An excellent option can be a zucchini mousse. This dish is easy to prepare, light and healthy, and its presentation is usually very attractive. Zucchini mousse, with its soft texture and delicate flavor, is ideal for whetting your appetite without filling you up too much.

Main courses

meats

If you decide to make meat the star of your menu, avoid overly heavy dishes such as heavy stews or large steaks. For a special occasion, it is better to opt for high-quality cuts in smaller portions, such as sirloin medallions or duck magret. These cuts are not only more refined, but they also add a special and elegant touch to your dinner, ensuring an exceptional culinary experience.

Fish and seafood

If you lean toward seafood, seafood is a classic choice that rarely disappoints. You can select a combination of crabs, shrimp or prawns, and add a sea ox to create an elegant, delicious dinner without requiring much preparation. This way you can dedicate more time to caring for your partner. If you prefer fish, a ceviche may be the perfect option. It is a simple recipe to prepare, fresh and surprising, that is sure to impress.

Desserts

Desserts don't have to be overly sweet or heavy. For a romantic dinner, opt for light and elegant desserts. A heart-shaped cake made with apple can be an ideal choice, as it combines a romantic touch with the freshness of the fruit. Another option is to prepare decorated chocolates or cookies, which are not only delicious but also add a personal and charming touch to the evening.

Foods to avoid

To make sure dinner is perfect, avoid foods that can cause bad breath, such as dishes with a lot of garlic or raw onions. Although legumes are healthy and recommended in the daily diet, it is better to avoid them on this occasion, as they can cause flatulence. It is also preferable to avoid very high-calorie or heavy dishes that may cause discomfort or drowsiness during the night.

Drinks

The choice of drinks is crucial to accompany your menu. A good wine, whether red or white, depending on the main dish, can enhance the flavors of the meal. Don't forget to have a sparkling wine on hand for the toast, a perfect time to make resolutions and celebrate your relationship. If you want to extend the night, consider preparing a special or mixed cocktail, preferably with a moderate alcohol content to avoid excesses and fully enjoy the evening.

Basics to organize the perfect dinner

Don't go overboard with portions

It is important that the portions are moderate. We don't want our diners to feel overwhelmed or too full. The key is to leave room for each dish and, of course, for dessert.

Decorate the table

A well-decorated table makes a big difference. Use a pretty tablecloth, elegant napkins and place candles to create an intimate atmosphere. A small flower arrangement can be the perfect finishing touch.

Setting with music

Music can transform the environment. Create a playlist with soft, romantic songs that can accompany the evening without being too invasive. Jazz, bossa nova or acoustic ballads can be excellent choices.

The recipes

Tomato and basil bruschetta

Ingredients:

• Baguette bread
• 2 ripe tomatoes
• fresh basil leaves
• 1 clove garlic
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cut the baguette bread into slices about 2 cm thick.
2. Toast the bread slices in the oven or in a toaster until golden.
3. Rub the toasted bread slices with garlic.
4. Chop the tomatoes into small cubes.
5. Chop the fresh basil.
6. In a bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, chopped basil, extra virgin olive oil, salt and black pepper.
7. Distribute the tomato mixture over the toasted bread slices.
8. Serve immediately.

Tuna tartare with avocado and citrus

Ingredients:

• 200 g fresh tuna
• 1 ripe avocado
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 orange
• 1 red onion
• fresh cilantro
• soy sauce to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Chop the tuna into small cubes.
2. Peel and chop the avocado into small cubes.
3. Squeeze the juice from the lime, lemon and orange.
4. Chop the red onion into brunoise (very finely chopped).
5. Chop the fresh cilantro.
6. In a bowl, mix the chopped tuna, chopped avocado, citrus juice, soy sauce, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, extra virgin olive oil, salt and black pepper.
7. Serve the tuna tartare in a plating ring or on an avocado base.
8. Garnish with some fresh coriander leaves.

Cannelloni stuffed with ricotta and spinach with bechamel sauce

Ingredients:

• For the cannelloni pasta:
  • 250 g cannelloni pasta
• For the filling:
  • 500g ricotta
  • 200 g fresh spinach
  • 1 onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 nutmeg
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
• For the bechamel sauce:
  • 500 ml of milk
  • 50g butter
  • 50 g wheat flour
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Nutmeg

Preparation:

1. Cook the cannelloni pasta according to the package instructions.
2. For the filling, chop the onion and garlic cloves.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic in a pan with extra virgin olive oil until soft.
4. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted.
5. Add the ricotta, nutmeg, salt and black pepper. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
6. Remove from heat and add grated Parmesan cheese to taste.
7. For the bechamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan.
8. Add the wheat flour and stir until a paste forms.
9. Add the milk little by little, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
10. Season with salt, black pepper and nutmeg.
11. Fill the cannelloni with the ricotta and spinach mixture.
12. Arrange the cannelloni in a baking dish.
13. Cover the cannelloni with the bechamel sauce.
14. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
15. Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce is golden.

Eggplant boats with cottage cheese, tomatoes and basil

Ingredients:

• 2 eggplants
• 200 g cottage cheese
• 2 tomatoes
• fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise.
2. Empty the eggplants with a spoon, leaving a little pulp on the edges.
3. Salt the eggplant boats and let them rest for 30 minutes to eliminate the bitter taste.
4. Eliminate the water that the eggplants have released.
5. Brush the eggplant boats with extra virgin olive oil.
6. Bake the eggplant boats at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, until they are tender.
7. While the eggplants are baking, prepare the filling.
8. Chop the tomatoes into small cubes.
9. Chop the fresh basil.
10. In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese, chopped tomatoes, chopped basil, salt and black pepper.
11. Fill the baked eggplant boats with the cottage cheese mixture.
12. Serve immediately.

Avocados stuffed with salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 avocados
• 200 g smoked salmon
• 50 g cream cheese
• 1 red onion
• fresh dill
• Lemon juice
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Preparation:

1. Cut the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pit.SW.
2. Empty some of the avocado with a spoon, leaving a little pulp on the edges.
3. Sprinkle the avocado with lemon juice to prevent it from oxidizing.
4. Chop the red onion into brunoise (very finely chopped).
5. Chop the fresh dill.
6. In a bowl, mix the chopped smoked salmon, cream cheese, chopped red onion, fresh dill, extra virgin olive oil, salt and black pepper.
7. Stuff the avocados with the smoked salmon mixture.
8. Serve immediately.

Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 200 g pasta (fettuccine is ideal)
• 200 ml of milk cream
• 100 g grated parmesan
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into thin fillets.
2. Season the chicken fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan.
4. Brown the chicken fillets in the pan on both sides.
5. Remove the chicken tenders from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic cloves until golden.
7. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Stir until the sauce thickens.
9. Add the reserved chicken fillets and cook for a few more minutes.
10. Chop the fresh parsley and add it to the sauce.
11. Serve the chicken Alfredo with pasta cooked to taste.

Orange chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 oranges
• 1 onion
• 1 green pepper
• 1 clove garlic
• Fresh ginger (optional)
• Chicken soup
• White wine
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Preparation:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into thin fillets.
2. Season the chicken fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan.
4. Brown the chicken fillets in the pan on both sides.
5. Remove the chicken tenders from the pan and set aside.
6. Chop the onion, green pepper and garlic clove.
7. Sauté the chopped onion, green pepper and garlic in the pan until soft.
8. Grate the orange peel and add it to the pan.
9. Squeeze the juice from the oranges and add it to the pan.
10. Add a piece of grated fresh ginger (optional).
11. Add a splash of white wine and cook until reduced.
12. Add the chicken broth and cook for a few more minutes.
13. Return the reserved chicken tenders to the pan and cook until the sauce thickens.
14. Serve the orange chicken with white rice or boiled potatoes.

Filet Mignon

Ingredients:

• 2 beef tenderloins
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Butter
• Salt
• Black pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Tie it up beef tenderloins with kitchen string to shape them.
3. Season the tenderloins with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan over high heat.
5. Brown the tenderloins on all sides in the pan.
6. Place the tenderloins on a baking tray.
7. Add a tablespoon of butter to each tenderloin.
8. Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sirloin and the desired doneness.
9. Let the tenderloins rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
10. Serve the filet mignon with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.

Chocolate fondue with fruits

Ingredients:

• 200 g dark chocolate
• 200 ml of milk cream
• Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas, pineapple, grapes)

Preparation:

1. Melt the chocolate in a bain-marie along with the heavy cream.
2. Serve the melted chocolate in a fondue container.
3. Place the fresh fruits on a plate and use skewers to dip them into the chocolate.

What did you think of these recipes? Will you try any of them? We hope that these recipes will help you surprise your partner with a delicious and unforgettable romantic dinner.

Food photography is an art form of capturing the beauty of food. A good food photo can whet the appetite and make people want to try what they're seeing.

In this exciting field, there are photographers who dedicate their talent exclusively to bringing flavors to life through the lens. Without a doubt, this sphere stands out for its fun and distinctive character, establishing itself as a unique discipline compared to other photographic genres.

The key here is not to simply place an object, such as an apple, in the frame and consider it sufficient. Rather, it is about discovering that special touch that awakens enthusiasm in the viewer, inviting them to immerse themselves in the experience and desire to consume or acquire what they see.

And it's not as easy as it seems. There are many factors to consider when taking deliciously enticing food photos, such as lighting, composition, and the elements at play.

In this content, we will provide you with an exhaustive guide with tips and tricks to make your food photos look so tempting that they whet the appetite of all your followers.

Tips for taking photos of food with your cell phone

If you are going to take photos of food with your cell phone, here are some specific tips:

• Clean your camera lens: A dirty lens can ruin even the most beautiful photo.
• Turn off the flash: The flash on cell phones is usually very strong and can create harsh shadows.
• Use the grid: The grid can help you compose the photo in a more balanced way.
• Get close to the food: Close-ups are a good way to show the details of the food.
• Use editing apps: There are many photo editing apps available for mobile that can help you improve the look of your photos.

How to make your food photos go viral

If you want your food photos to go viral, there are a few things you can do:

• Use popular hashtags: Hashtags are a great way to get your photo seen by more people. You can use food-related hashtags, such as #foodphotography, #foodie, or #yum.
• Share your photos on social networks: Social networks are a great platform to share your food photos. You can share them on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
• Hold contests: Contests are a great way to generate engagement and excitement for your food photos. You can have a contest for people to upload their own food photos or to guess what's in a photo.

Tips for taking food photos that look deliciously tempting

If you want to learn how to take deliciously tempting food photos, here are some tips:

Use good lighting

Lighting is one of the most critical elements in making food look appetizing. Natural light is your best ally. Place your plate near a window where light filters in softly. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows and strong contrasts. Diffused light, like you get on a cloudy day or through thin curtains, helps highlight details without creating uncomfortable shadows.

Avoid using flashes, as they can create harsh, unattractive shadows. If you must use a flash, use a diffuser to soften the light.

Prepare food carefully

Before taking a photo of food, make sure the food is clean and tidy. Cut foods into attractive pieces and place them on a plate so that they look appetizing.

If possible, use fresh and seasonal ingredients. Fresh colors and flavors will make your photo more attractive.

Background and composition

The background and composition are crucial aspects to direct the viewer's gaze towards the central plate. Opt for simple, neutral backgrounds that are not distracting. Wooden tables, marble tables or smooth surfaces are popular options. Use the rule of thirds to create a balanced and attractive composition. Place the focal point (the food) at one of the intersection points for visual balance.

Use accessories

Props can help add interest to your food photos. You can use elements such as flowers, kitchen utensils, or even people to create a cozy and appetizing atmosphere.

For example, you can place a plate of pasta on a red and white checkered fabric tablecloth. Or you can place a plate of sushi on a wooden plate with a sushi knife and a pair of chopsticks.

Keep accessories simple and consistent with the overall aesthetic.

Experiment with different angles and perspectives

Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the one that best highlights the food. You can take photos from above, from below, or even from the side.

For example, you can take a photo of a cake from above to show all the details. Or you can take a photo of a burger from below to show the juicy filling.

An angle slightly from above or at the level of the food usually works well as it shows the detail and layering of the ingredients.

Selective focus

Use a wide aperture (a low f-number) on your camera to create a blurred background and highlight food in the foreground. This is called "bokeh" and adds depth to the image. By blurring the background, your main dishes will stand out and be the center of attention.

Drops and Splashes: Adding Dynamism

If you're shooting food with sauces or liquids, capturing the drips and splashes can add vibrancy and a fresh feeling. Just the right moment can transform a static image into an exciting viewing experience.

Edit your photos

Once you've taken the photos, you can use a photo editor to adjust contrast, color, and other elements to enhance the look of your photos.  Editing also allows you to correct small imperfections and distractions in the image.

You can use a desktop photo editor or a mobile photo editor. There are many photo editing apps available that are easy to use.

By following these tips, you'll be able to take deliciously tempting food photos that will make anyone's mouth water.

In our constant quest for healthier eating, we often fall into the trap of believing that certain foods are good for us just because their label touts them as "low in fat" or "no added sugar. But beware! Some of these foods may be ultra-processed and not as healthy as we think.

What are processed and ultra-processed foods?

Before delving into the list of foods that we think are healthy but are ultra-processed, it's important to understand what processed and ultra-processed foods are.

Processed foods are those that have been altered from their natural state, through the application of culinary techniques or preservatives. For example, foods that have been cut, peeled, cooked, canned, frozen, or pasteurized are considered processed foods.

On the other hand, ultra-processed foods are those that have been highly processed and contain a large amount of artificial ingredients and additives, such as colorings, flavorings, and preservatives, which they are not found naturally in food. 

Processed foods can be healthy, as long as they maintain the nutrients and don't add large amounts of unhealthy ingredients, such as saturated fats, added sugars, and salt. However, ultra-processed foods are generally less nutritious and can be harmful to health if eaten in large quantities.

It's important to remember that not all processed foods are bad, and some are even necessary for the human diet. For example, processed foods like bread, pasta, and cheese can be healthy choices if they're carefully chosen and eaten in moderation. The important thing is to read food labels and look for healthier options to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet.

What foods that we thought were healthy are not so healthy?

Energy bars

Energy bars are the perfect snack to take with you to the office or gym, right? Well, not so fast. Many energy bars contain high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, as well as being highly processed and containing artificial additives.

Often, energy bars contain more than 10 grams of sugar per serving, which is equivalent to more than two teaspoons of sugar. That's a lot! Plus, they often contain saturated fats and hydrogenated oils, which are unhealthy fats for your heart. If you are looking for an energy snack, opt for fresh fruit or nuts.

Flavored yogurt

Yogurt is a healthy and nutritious food, but many flavored yogurts contain large amounts of added sugar and other processed ingredients. Also, some flavored yogurts contain less protein than plain yogurts and are therefore less nutritious.

To enjoy the benefits of yogurt, opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit or honey to sweeten it. You can also add nuts or seeds for a boost of protein and healthy fats.

Breakfast cereals

Breakfast cereals are one of the foods we think of as healthy, but they can actually contain large amounts of added sugars and other processed ingredients. Also, some breakfast cereals contain less fiber than other foods like eggs or oatmeal.

When looking for breakfast cereals, be sure to read labels carefully and look for whole grains that are low in sugar and free of artificial ingredients. A healthy option is to mix whole grain cereals with fresh fruit and plain yogurt for a nutritious and balanced breakfast meal.

Protein shakes

Protein shakes can be a convenient way to increase your protein intake, especially after an intense workout. However, many protein shakes contain ingredients artificial and added sugars. Also, some protein shakes are high in calories and saturated fat.

If you're looking for a healthy protein shake option, opt for a high-quality protein powder and mix with skim milk, plain yogurt, and fresh fruit for a balanced, nutritious drink. Avoid premixed protein shakes that contain unhealthy ingredients like high fructose corn syrups, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.

Almond milk and other milk alternatives

Almond milk, soy milk, and other milk alternatives are becoming increasingly popular with people looking for healthier options than cow's milk. However, many of these milk alternatives contain added sugars and other processed ingredients.

If you opt for a milk alternative, be sure to read the label carefully and look for options with no added sugars and no artificial ingredients. It's also important to remember that these milk alternatives may not contain the same amount of protein and calcium as cow's milk, so it's important to make sure you're getting enough protein and calcium from other sources in your diet.

White mold bread

Sandwich white bread is a staple in many kitchens, but it's important to remember that it's highly processed and may contain unhealthy ingredients like high fructose corn syrups and hydrogenated oils. Also, sliced white bread has a high glycemic index, which means it can spike your blood sugar levels and won't keep you full for long.

If you opt for bread, look for whole grain options that contain more fiber and fewer processed ingredients. You can also try alternatives like rye bread or sourdough bread to get more variety in your diet.

York ham or cooked ham

Ham is a popular choice for sandwiches and salads, but it often contains high amounts of sodium and preservatives. Also, some types of cooked ham contain added sugars and other processed ingredients.

If you opt for cooked ham, look for options without added sugar and low in sodium. You can also try healthier protein options like roast chicken or turkey.

Fried and salted nuts

Nuts are a healthy and nutritious option, but fried and salted nuts can contain high amounts of sodium and unhealthy fats. Additionally, some fried nuts contain artificial additives and other processed ingredients.

If you opt for nuts, look for options with no added salt and no artificial ingredients. Raw or oven-roasted nuts are a healthier option.

Tomato sauce

Tomato sauce is a popular seasoning for pasta and pizza, but many tomato sauces contain high amounts of added sugar and other processed ingredients. Also, some tomato sauces contain preservatives and artificial additives.

If you opt for tomato sauce, look for options with no added sugars and no artificial ingredients. You can also choose to make your own homemade tomato sauce with fresh and natural ingredients.

Energy drinks

Energy drinks may seem like a quick and easy way to boost your energy, but many of these drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and added sugars. Also, some energy drinks contain unhealthy ingredients like taurine and other stimulants.

If you're looking for an energy drink option, opt for healthier options like green tea or coffee. It is also important to remember that energy drinks should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

If you are thinking of eating a healthier and more balanced diet, then you should look for foods that cannot be missing in your pantry. Thanks to a balanced diet our health can improve greatly since we can reduce cardiovascular diseases, protect bone health and improve our immune system.

We also want to give you some tips to get the most out of these foods and thus provide more nutrients to your body:

• Opt for fresh and unprocessed foods
• Eat fruits and vegetables raw, don't forget to disinfect them before eating them.
• Cook legumes (chickpeas and beans) with meat and vegetables to take advantage of all the benefits.
• Steam or cook vegetables with little water. Use the leftover liquid to make soups

Remember that, to achieve a correct diet, it is recommended to include at least one food from each of the food groups in each main meal. These are: preferably whole grain cereals, legumes and foods of animal origin, as well as fruits and vegetables.

Below we leave you the essential foods in a healthy diet.

Avocado

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It is a fruit very rich in healthy fats, monounsaturated. It helps to keep the skin young and regulates the cholesterol level. It provides potassium, a mineral that activates the elimination of toxins, and vitamins E and C.

Beans

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Beans are rich in vegetable protein, fiber, B vitamins, iron, folic acid, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc. Most beans are also low in fat. Legumes are similar to meat in nutrients, but with lower iron levels and no animal fats.

Salmon

​

This fish contains significant amounts of Omega 3 and vitamins. Its intake can help reduce cholesterol levels as well as the risk of arrhythmia.

Oat

​

It is a good source of fiber and has a low glycemic index, which means that blood sugar levels rise moderately and slowly after taking it. So you feel with a full stomach for longer.

Tomato

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One of the qualities of this vegetable is that it has a large amount of water, as well as being a source of important minerals and vitamins that have been characterized by their contribution to diuretic power and therefore, its regular consumption can help cleanse the blood.

Fruits of the forest

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In this group we have blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and currants. All four are among the foods richest in antioxidants and have the property of making collagen, the protein that helps keep skin smooth and young.

Nuts

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They contain protein, healthy fats, fiber and anti-inflammatory polyphenols, but above all, omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. They control blood pressure, guarantee greater cardiovascular health and better cholesterol levels.

Olive oil

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Olive oil is one of the healthiest we can find. The main fatty acid in this plant-based product is oleic. From it we obtain omega 3 and substances such as carotenes or sterols. Olive oil is an unsaturated fat.

Green Tea

Green tea is a valuable source of flavonoids and has an antioxidant effect. Flavonoids are a diverse group of phytonutrients. This drink contains caffeine, but the effect is less, more gradual, and lasts longer.

Chickpeas

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Its fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, which is healthy for the heart. It also provides a high protein level and is rich in potassium, phosphorus and folic acid.

Garlic

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It has sulfur components that help purify the cellular system, to strengthen joints and connective tissues and optimize the elasticity of blood vessels. It provides antioxidants, such as manganese, vitamin C and selenium, powerful reducers of inflammation.

Green leaves

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Among them are spinach, chard and arugula. They are full of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are positive for cell function and communication and ensure that enzymatic reactions happen when they should. They help to have a strong immune system.

What other foods would you include on the list? Are any of these foods common in your daily diet? Tell us, leave your opinion in the comments.