Creating a romantic date night at home is easy on the wallet with our handpicked recipes. You don’t need to spend big to make the evening special.

We’ve curated 13 cost-effective dishes that promise a delightful dinner for two. They’re uncomplicated to make but don’t skimp on flavor.

Enjoy a cozy night in with your partner, courtesy of these simple yet delicious meals. It’s all about making memories without the hefty price tag.

Spaghetti with Mushroom Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti with Mushroom Marinara Sauce is a hearty dish with a rich, earthy flavor from the mushrooms and a tangy kick from the marinara. Ready in under an hour, it combines spaghetti with a sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This twist on a classic Italian dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect meal for a romantic evening at home.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti with Mushroom Marinara Sauce

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks feature a blend of citrus and traditional spices, creating a zesty and aromatic flavor. The chicken takes about an hour to marinate and cook, resulting in juicy meat that falls off the bone. This dish is a nod to Colombian cuisine and is a great way to spice up a date night without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Uzbek chicken plov

Uzbek Chicken Plov is a one-pot wonder combining rice, carrots, and chicken, seasoned with cumin and coriander. It takes about 90 minutes to prepare, delivering a dish that’s both fragrant and filling. The flavors are a testament to Uzbekistan’s rich culinary heritage, making it an adventurous yet accessible choice for a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Uzbek chicken plov

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta brings together the creaminess of feta cheese with the robust flavors of cherry tomatoes and garlic. This dish, which can be prepared in about 35 minutes, offers a blend of tangy and savory notes, enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that’s sure to delight anyone looking for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Mujadara

Mujadara is a satisfying dish of lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions, known for its warm, earthy flavors. In about 40 minutes, this Middle Eastern staple can be on your table, offering a comforting and nutritious meal. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a great choice for an intimate, budget-friendly dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara

Virgin lychee mojito

Virgin Lychee Mojito is a refreshing mocktail that combines sweet lychee, mint, and lime. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s a non-alcoholic beverage that doesn’t compromise on taste. The result is a perfect balance of fruity and zesty, ideal for toasting to a special moment together.
Get the Recipe: Virgin lychee mojito

Spicy Pineapple Margarita Mocktail (with Jalapeño)

The Spicy Pineapple Margarita Mocktail is a vibrant blend of sweet pineapple and fiery jalapeño. It takes about 10 minutes to mix up this non-alcoholic drink, which delivers a tropical taste with a spicy kick. This mocktail is an exciting option for those who love bold flavors without the alcohol.
Get the Recipe: spicy pineapple margarita mocktail (with jalapeño)

Argentinian Empanadas

Argentinian Empanadas are savory pastries filled with a mixture of vegetables and spices. They require about an hour to prepare and bake, culminating in a flaky crust with a warm, flavorful filling. These empanadas are perfect for a hands-on dinner date, offering a taste of Argentina’s rich culinary culture.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka is a layered dish of eggplant, potatoes, and a rich béchamel sauce. It takes about 2 hours to create this luscious, comforting casserole that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The dish is a meatless take on a Greek classic, perfect for a leisurely romantic dinner.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish with a tangy buttermilk marinade and a savory herb seasoning. The preparation and cooking time is about an hour, resulting in tender chicken and flavorful potatoes. This dish is ideal for a cozy night in, offering homestyle flavors that are sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Rosemary Sourdough Bread is an artisanal bread with a crisp crust and a soft, aromatic crumb. It requires several hours for preparation and baking, but the result is a loaf that’s fragrant with rosemary and perfect for sharing. This bread pairs well with a variety of dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Sourdough Bread

Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant Tomato Stacks are a visually stunning and flavorful dish with layers of roasted eggplant and seasoned tomatoes. They can be prepared in about 45 minutes, offering a light yet satisfying taste experience. This dish is great for a date night, serving up elegance with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce

Roasted Cauliflower in Green Herb Sauce is a vibrant dish with the nuttiness of cauliflower complemented by a zesty herb sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet flavorful side that can elevate any romantic meal. The combination of herbs and spices ensures a memorable dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce