Celebrations need not be dulled despite living in a dorm! Holidays like Valentine’s Day can still be fully embraced within the confines of the dorm kitchen and lounge. So many simple, festive recipes can be modified to accommodate smaller spaces and gatherings.
This year, enjoy a three-course meal within the comfort of your dorm for Valentine’s Day by following these simple recipes:
Hor d’Oeuvres: The perfect Valentine’s appetizer is a small selection of caprese skewers. Purchase red or pink skewers and then find mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes at Trader Joe’s or a nearby market. Place the mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on the skewers and then lay them flatly on a plate. Drizzle balsamic dressing and olive oil over the skewers and add a pinch of seasoning (such as salt or Italian seasoning) to the dish.
Main Entree: With the recent opening of Trader Joe’s at 425 S Main Street in Providence, you can create your gourmet gnocchi and sausage dish in marinara with a simple microwave. Begin by purchasing Cauliflower gnocchi, olive oil, parmesan cheese, fresh basil, tomato marinara, Himalayan salt, and chicken or regular sausage that only needs to be heated. Once you return to your dorm, microwave the cauliflower gnocchi and add them to your bowls. Then, chop your chicken sausage and add marinara, salt, and olive oil to the bowl as well—microwave for an additional one to two minutes. Garnish with parmesan cheese and basil before dining!
Dessert: Decorated Chocolate Covered Strawberries are a classic romantic sweet for a good reason! They are simple to make and decorate and so tasty as well. In a small bowl, melt your dark or milk chocolate, and then dip your fresh strawberries. Feel free to add pink or red sprinkles to the strawberries before placing them in your dorm fridge for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate fully hardens.
With a few simple, fun steps, you have successfully hosted a Valentine’s Day soiree and cheffed a delicious meal for your loved ones!