Budget Date Night Dinners at Home

1. Pasta Carbonara ($8 for two)

The most romantic pasta costs almost nothing. Eggs, pecorino, guanciale, and black pepper.

2. Pan-Seared Salmon ($15 for two)

Buttery, crispy-skinned salmon with lemon and herbs. Serve with rice and asparagus.

3. Steak and Mashed Potatoes ($18 for two)

Buy a good steak on sale, sear it perfectly, and serve with creamy mashed potatoes.

4. Homemade Pizza Night ($10 for two)

Make dough from scratch (flour, yeast, water). Top with whatever you love.

5. Thai Coconut Curry ($12 for two)

Coconut milk, curry paste, and vegetables. Feels exotic, costs very little.

Set the Mood

• Candles on the table
• Cloth napkins
• Music playing softly
• Phones away
• A glass of wine ($8-12 bottle)