Wake up and smell the chocolate
Valentine's Day falling on a Tuesday might make it difficult for some to pull off a romantic evening out, or even in. So instead of attempting artichoke-stuffed Cornish hens, truffle risotto and red velvet cake when you walk in the door after work, start the day with a decadent note — serve your Valentines chocolate-centric breakfast treats that will leave them sweetly reflecting on the morning meal (and you!) the rest of the day.
Chocolate can infuse such breakfast favorites as waffles, crepes and scones. And because dark chocolate boasts nutrients linked to lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and improving mood, we don't even have to feel guilty about eating chocolate for breakfast (though food sometimes tastes better when you think you're breaking the rules).
For decades, French families have started the day with pain au chocolat — flaky, chocolate-filled croissants like the ones chef Yamandu Perez serves at Zak's Place in Hinsdale. The pastries can be rolled and filled a day or two in advance and popped in the oven in the morning.
Likewise Cherry Chocolate Bread Pudding from the American Institute of Cancer Research is a make-ahead French toast casserole-style dish that leaves you more time to linger in the morning.
Even crepes and waffles could be made the evening before and reheated in the oven to quicken breakfast service; the scone batter comes together quickly and they bake in less time than it takes to walk the dog and feed the guinea pigs.