Recipes

bianca eats…as usual: read this if you’re too broke to go out for valentine’s day, whether that be from lack of money or love

by Bianca Mehrotra

welcome back to bianca eats… as usual! your most favourite column where i trade my remaining sanity for your entertainment! this time, we’re tackling valentine’s day, the annual celebration of overpriced prix fixe menus and heart-shaped capitalism. but if you’re too broke for all that (financially or emotionally), fear not. i have a recipe that’ll make you forget you’re single (or make your partner question why they’re still paying for takeout). 

yes, i’m back in the kitchen (no jokes need to be made here, please), cosplaying as your favourite celebrity chef (martha stewart!) with no michelin stars and probably even less dignity than last time. it’s me, your resident academic martyr who will be providing you with the most perfect salmon and potatoes recipe, because nothing says “love” like fish and carbs (perfect for your make-out afterwards). who needs a fancy restaurant when you can create your own chaotic culinary magic at home? grab your apron, shed a tear (it’s character-building), and let’s make something that’ll impress… even if it’s just yourself. 

SALMON TO DIE FOR

marinade recipe

  • olive oil
  • lemon juice
  • garlic
  • italian seasoning
  • hot honey
  • salt + pepper (to taste)

steps

  1. mix marinade in a separate bowl
  2. place salmon fillets in ziploc bag and pour marinade in (mix in the bag)
  3. leave in fridge for at least 15 mins (can also leave in freezer for whenever)
  4. once marinated, take out of bag and wrap the fillets in aluminum foil
  5. place in air fryer at 400 degrees (fahrenheit) for about 10–15 mins — if you prefer oven or stovetop, you can do that here as well (pan fry for that crispy skin!)… but trust me, the best cook i have ever gotten on my salmon is in the air fryer! 

POTATOES FOR YOUR BEAUTIFUL GARLICKY BREATH

ingredients

  • mini potatoes, diced into quarters
  • olive oil
  • garlic powder
  • italian seasoning
  • salt + pepper (to taste) 

steps 

  1. chop potatoes and place in bowl
  2. add olive oil, garlic powder, italian seasoning, salt, and pepper — mix until each piece is coated
  3. place on lined tray (make sure each piece is spread out) — bake at 350 degrees fahrenheit for about 15 mins — i promise you will love these, but don’t come kissing me after you eat these 🙂 

and there you have it! vday dinner without the heartbreak or burning of holes in your bank account! remember, love is overrated, but eating your feelings never is! 

happy valentine’s day from me to you! 💟