Valentine's Day is one of those occasions which is fraught with trepidation, excitement and sometimes disappointment (I know I have been disappointed in the past!). Last year for Valentine's Day I was too scared and unsure to do anything special for the person who I have now fallen in love with. So my first tip is to not hold back! If you think someone is special make sure you show them. Here are some of my favorite little dishes to share on Valentine's Day: :: Oysters and Champagne – get the freshest, juiciest oysters you can find. I love the Sydney Rock Oysters as they are native in Sydney or if you can get them, Coffin Bay Oysters are probably my favourite, top that off with an ice cold glass of champagne for the perfect start to your evening. :: Blue Cheese and Fig Crostini – sweet and savoury, drizzle a little honey for some extra sweetness and garnish with fresh baby basil. Simple. :: Kingfish Ceviche – this is one of my favourites from my eBook Hayden Cooks Summer and it seems there is something sexy about raw fish and coconut - the two main ingredients. The coconut is sweet and earthy and the raw fish has a certain texture to it that makes it sexy. :: Sirloin with fresh Salsa Verde – I love a girl who loves a steak, and the girl I love, loves steak. So it's the perfect pick for this Valentine's Day. The freshness of the salsa verde lifts the whole dish and removes the potential heaviness of the steak. :: Dark Chocolate Mousse with Raspberries and Chocolate Curls – This is the luxurious finish you want for your meal; smooth and rich.  

Kingfish Ceviche

Hayden's Tips: Cook it yourself! Even if you cock it up, as long as you've put a little love and effort into the meal it will be sexy, especially if you don't often cook for your partner. Keep it simple, keep it fun and keep it light; you don’t want anyone falling asleep after dinner! P.S. The naked chef should be kept to Jamie Oliver only. Cooking in the nude can get dangerous!!!