Should I be embarrassed by the fact I like Valentine’s Day? Probably? But I do. I like everything chocolate, I think flowers are charming, I have nothing against a nice glass of wine and I melt when my children present me with homemade cards scribbled with their sweet handwriting. If you welcome an opportunity to cook a special meal for your partner or to put out an amazing spread for your friends, then I’m offering up Valentine’s Day for your consideration.
All that said, there’s nothing less attractive or fun than a kitchen full of tedious cleaning tasks. So I’ve chosen one-pot, minimal-prep recipes for you for this week, along with simple dishes that cook in one pan and could use rice or potatoes on the side, bringing your total to two pots. That’s not so bad, people.
Reach out if you need recipe recommendations or have thoughts for me. I’m dearemily@nytimes.com and I love to hear from you.
1. Sheet-Pan Cajun Salmon
This recipe from Millie Peartree makes it very easy to be fancy, and the addition of asparagus and baby potatoes makes it an entire meal on one pan. There’s barely any chopping at all! And you can substitute in green beans or broccolini if you like.
