Valentine's Day is here, and whether you're spending the day with your significant other or those in your bubble, things are bound to be a little different this year. While you could brave the blustery Chicago winters and dine in the sub-freezing temps alfresco, why not stay at home and express your love in the sleek, stylish, and amenity-filled luxury apartments at NEMA Chicago?
Have a chic dinner for loved ones and utilize the modern South Loop apartments at NEMA Chicago, where top-of-the-line kitchens are the ultimate place to prep a gourmet feast.
Channel your inner Ina as you simmer, stir, and savor your favorite recipes over the gorgeous stainless-steel Blomberg gas range in an open-plan kitchen that rivals any restaurant. Gather around the Caesarstone island for cocktails and a casual dinner or take your culinary creations to the dining table for a more formal affair. Wherever you choose to enjoy your meal, the straightforward layout and state-of-the-art-appliance-filled kitchen will make cooking a breeze.
In fact, the most challenging part of cooking in any NEMA Chicago home might just be choosing what you are going to make for the special occasion. They say that food is the fastest way to someone's heart, so here are some easy but impressive choices to create the most memorable Valentine's Day ever.
Beginners and pro chefs alike know that cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious. Save yourself stress without sacrificing deliciousness with the tried-and-true shrimp scampi over pasta. When serving this dish, you're almost transported back to an old-school Italian joint with red-and-white checkered tablecloths. This buttery, garlicky classic is evened out with just enough wine to give it a kick. And don't forget to spice it up with red pepper flakes.
Keep with the city's grand history of Italian dining and restaurants and try your hand at homemade pizza. This is an excellent opportunity for small groups to top their own pizzas, and the dough can be made well in advance.
While cooking a steak at home seems intimidating, it's really not. In just a few minutes, you'll have an expertly seared filet mignon that's elevated with a few dollops of pepper cream sauce. Carnivores will also enjoy a lamb chop drizzled ever so carefully with a tangy and sweet balsamic reduction that balances out the lamb's richness.
Chicken is a go-to for at-home cooks. And there's a good reason why: it's delicious. Try a flavorful take on chicken thighs with this crispy honey-lemon chicken recipe. If you're trying to drop a hint this Valentine's Day, we recommend the "Marry Me" chicken recipe from Delish, in which the chicken is coupled with a creamy, tomato-dappled sauce that will have everyone saying, "I do...want seconds."
As you can see, getting started on any of these Valentine's Day meal ideas is simple, and the best way to end your V-Day dining experience is by cuddling with the one you love or playing a game with your family and bubble buddies as you look out upon the jaw-dropping views from NEMA Chicago.