Dining at home this February 14? For a romantic prelude or finale to the meal, serve dried Calimyrna figs. When cut lengthwise, they look like little hearts. They're a sweet complement to cheeses, crusty breads, and salads. An added benefit: Figs are packed with nutrients, such as iron and potassium, which helps lower blood pressure.

If you let them, your kids would eat ice-cream sundaes for breakfast. Offer them the next best thing: sundaes made with yogurt, cereal, granola, and fresh fruit layered in tall sundae glasses and eaten with long spoons. For special occasions, such as the morning after the big slumber party, lay out a parfait buffet and let kids make their own.

Hearty and versatile, omelets are ideal fare for virtually any occasion. And they can be prepared in various ways: rolled, folded, flipped, or stuffed. Try a classic omelet, a shaken omelet, or an egg-white omelet.

A childhood favorite grows up in this sophisticated update on applesauce, which boasts an intense caramelized flavor, thanks to a base of roasted apples. It's also an excellent way to make use of fruit left over from fall apple picking. Simply roast the whole fruit with brown sugar and butter until softened, and then use a food mill to puree and separate out the skins and seeds. Stir in your favorite spices and enjoy the sweet harvest.

Roasted Applesauce Recipe

Here's a potion kids are sure to love. Among the ingredients are cinnamon candies that give it zing. Stir 1 quart apple cider and 1/4 cup hard cinnamon candies in a medium saucepan over low heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until heated through and candies have melted completely, about 8 minutes. Serve warm.