I'll be the first to admit I'm not the biggest fan of Valentine's Day, and generally not the cheesy romantic type at all. But I must say, I was intrigued when I received a bottle of purportedly passion-inducing Agavero. Agavero ($30) is a 100 percent blue agave tequila that's infused with damiana — a small, aromatic flower that, for centuries, has been believed to be a potent aphrodisiac.

Although Agavero has the brilliant gold color of a traditional tequila, it possesses more sugar and viscosity, and is more like a liqueur. As a result, agave aficionados will probably dislike it. But for the same reason, it's a good gateway choice for those who don't tend to like tequila.

Now to the most important question: when drinking Agavero, will one truly experience a flurry of unbridled passion? After a shot and some delicious tequila sunrises, I decided the answer is no — which left me wondering if I didn't drink enough to see a real effect. There's only one way to find out: keep on drinking the stuff. After all, it goes down incredibly smooth. Have you ever tried a damiana-infused spirit?

If you're celebrating Valentine's Day this year with a romantic night in, consider serving one of the world's sexiest foods: an interactive, dip-and-devour chocolate fondue. Although the Alpine tradition began with melted cheese, the chocolate dessert variation is an easy, affordable, beginner way to start making the fancy stuff at home. Turn pro with chocolate fondue when you keep reading.

Imagine a Valentine's Day where you roll out of bed, enjoy a leisurely brunch at your favorite breakfast spot, and spend the day out (hiking, or seeing a movie, or playing in the snow) with loved ones. Then you come home to a house wafting with an enticing aroma, and a dinner that's ready in seconds. It's totally possible with this amazing slow cooker short rib recipe.

It's the best kind of crockpot meal: All you have to do is dump everything into a slow cooker and turn it on. Hours later your kitchen will smell wonderful. The tender meat falls right off the bone, the beef melts in your mouth, and the veggies are rich and flavorful.

Although it's a hearty and rustic dish, there's something so casual and comforting that it's easy to feel romantic — especially when dining by candlelight! Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta. Are you intrigued? Get the recipe now.

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