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10 FUN THINGS TO COOK TOGETHER ON A DATE

Looking for some romantic and fun recipes to try on a date? Check out these 10 delicious dishes to cook together!

HOMEMADE PIZZA

Making pizza from scratch is a fun and interactive way to bond. You and your partner can knead the dough, pick your favorite toppings, and get creative with different flavor combinations. Personalize each pizza to suit your tastes, making it a unique creation that reflects both of you. I like to use a simple Greek yogurt pizza dough by mixing 200g self-rising flour with 200g Greek yogurt, kneading until a dough ball forms, then rolling it flat, adding pizza sauce and your favorite toppings, and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

NACHOS

Nachos are a laid-back and delicious choice for a date night. Layer crunchy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a fun, hands-on meal that encourages sharing and some friendly competition for the last cheesy bite.

HOMEMADE GNOCCHI

Making gnocchi from scratch is like playing with edible playdough! It’s a tactile and rewarding experience that’s sure to bring you closer. Roll the dough into small dumplings and watch them turn into fluffy, delicious pillows. You can experiment with different sauces to suit your mood. I love using a simple recipe from Cooking With Ayeh and serving it with a classic tomato sauce and parmesan cheese.

BURGERS

Crafting your own burgers offers endless possibilities. From selecting your patty to choosing toppings, sauces, and buns, it’s a chance to get creative. You can even come up with fun burger names based on your relationship, making it a memorable and playful experience.

SUSHI

Making sushi together is a fun and adventurous way to bond. Mastering the art of rolling sushi, slicing fresh fish or veggies, and working with sticky rice can be challenging and exciting. Try an easy and delicious crunchy roll recipe with cucumber, avocado, and sashimi—perfect for beginners!

MEATBALLS

Rolling meatballs is a hands-on, intimate activity that’s surprisingly fun. Shape the meat mixture into perfect spheres and simmer them in a flavorful sauce—your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering aroma. You can even have a playful competition to see who can roll the perfect meatball.

PAStA

Pasta is always a winner! Gigi Hadid’s pasta recipe is a crowd favorite for good reason—simple, flavorful, and easy to make. Prepare the ingredients together, cook the pasta, and toss it in a delicious sauce for a romantic and satisfying dinner.

MARRY ME CHICKEN

Marry me chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare but impressive. The sauce, made from sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and your choice of chicken, adds depth to this luscious meal. Serve it with a glass of white wine for an unforgettable dinner.

STEAK

Cooking steak together allows you to explore your culinary skills. From selecting the cut to seasoning and grilling, it’s an engaging experience. Try different rubs, marinades, and cooking techniques to create a memorable steak dinner. Pair it with a side like a green salad, french fries, or roasted green beans.

LOBSTER RAVIOLI

For a truly romantic gesture, try making heart-shaped lobster ravioli. This elegant dish features delicate pasta filled with a succulent lobster tail, making it perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. Preparing the ravioli together adds a personal touch, and the dish will feel just as fancy as a restaurant meal but made in the comfort of your home. Pair it with a glass of wine and enjoy!

THE BEST EVER DATE SQUARES

Rich and creamy pureed dates nestled between two layers of crispy, buttery oatmeal crust—Date Squares are the stuff of dreams. Simply irresistible!

INGREDIENTS

For the Date Mixture

  • 500g (17.65 oz) pitted dates
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) orange juice
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) water
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt (Himalayan salt recommended)

For the Crumble

  • 1 cup (240g | 8.5 oz) butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g | 7.1 oz) light brown sugar
  • 1-1/2 cups (145g | 5 oz) rolled oats
  • 1-1/2 cups (190g | 6.8 oz) unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the Date Mixture: Combine all the ingredients for the date mixture in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid evaporates, leaving a smooth and creamy mixture. Set aside to cool.
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
  • Make the Crumble: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar using a wooden spoon until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently until the mixture is combined but crumbly.
  • Assemble the Layers: Press half of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base. Spoon the cooled date mixture evenly over the base, spreading it gently to the edges. Crumble the remaining oat mixture loosely over the top.
  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns lightly golden brown.
  • Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill completely, preferably overnight.
  • Cut and Serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy!