Cast iron skillets have been around for decades and for good reason; not only are they durable, they have the ability to retain both heat and seasoning properties.

When cooking for that special someone on Valentine’s Day, planning is key. Plot out your menu start to finish and think about production. Can you do enough in advance so you can spend most of the evening at the dinner table with your date, and not in the kitchen over the stove?

Prevent water from boiling over by placing a wooden spoon over the pot. Because wood does not conduct heat well, the bubbling hot water will break away from it.

Make your own croutons! Choose and cut your favorite bread into any shape, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper and ground rosemary. Bake at 350°F, tossing once or twice until golden brown. Garnish your favorite soup or salad, and enjoy!