Valentine’s Day is all about setting the mood, right? But let’s be real, some foods are mood killers, turning what’s meant to be a night of romance into a comedy of errors. Here’s the lowdown on the 7 foods that’ll totally kill the Valentine’s Day vibe. Trust us, steering clear of these will keep the evening smooth and the romance alive.
Onions
Similar to their cousin garlic, onions pack a pungent punch that can linger on your breath and even seep through your pores. If you’re aiming for sweet whispers and kisses, onions might just turn those moments into a bitter experience. Save the onions for cooking solo meals, not for your Valentine’s feast.
Fried Foods
Fried foods are delicious, no doubt, but they’re heavy and greasy, which can lead to feeling sluggish and uncomfortable. On a night when you want to feel your best, fried foods can make you feel more like taking a nap than taking part in a romantic rendezvous. Opt for lighter fare to keep the energy up and the night going.
Popcorn
Popcorn might seem like a light and easy snack, but those pesky hulls have a tendency to get stuck in your teeth. Not the best look when you’re trying to impress your Valentine! Plus, the buttery goodness can leave your fingers greasy. For a smooth and seamless night, maybe save the popcorn for movie night at home.
Broccoli
While broccoli is a superhero in the nutrition world, it’s less heroic when it comes to date night digestion. This veggie can lead to some uncomfortable bloating and gas—a real mood killer if you’re planning a cozy, intimate evening. It’s best left for another day when romance isn’t on the agenda.
Pine Nuts
Pine nuts, those tiny seeds that add a crunchy texture to salads and pestos, have a peculiar side effect for some people: a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth days after eating them. Known as “pine nut syndrome,” it’s a quirky way to ruin a romantic dinner. Best to steer clear to avoid any unexpected surprises.
Booze
A little bit of booze can certainly help set the mood, but overindulging could lead to impaired judgment, sloppy speech, and a potential for the night to end earlier than anticipated. Moderation is key; after all, Valentine’s Day is about creating memorable moments, not forgetting them.
Garlic
Garlic, the flavor powerhouse, is infamous for leaving a lasting impression, not just on your palate but also on your breath. On Valentine’s Day, when close conversations are key, garlic’s lingering aroma could play the role of an unwanted third wheel. Keep the romance alive by keeping garlic off the menu!
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
