What Men Cook for Women on Their Special Day

Something easy, so there’s no chance of failure? Something elaborate to impress? Sweet and aromatic or bold and spicy? A surprise dinner or a full-day menu to make her feel special from morning to night? So many questions—and even more answers, especially if you ask us. We’ve got ideas for every woman in the world, but you only need one: the most important “her.”

How simple or complex this process is depends on the man and how well he’s figured out the age-old mystery of “What do women want?”. We’ll help you with the toughest part—choosing the dishes and providing full recipes. From here on out, you’re the chef.

Breakfast

Croque Madame

Not Croque Monsieur. If you want to score full points, pay attention even to the smallest details. Croque Madame is easy enough to be called a sandwich, but refined enough to impress first thing in the morning. A win-win situation.

American Pancakes

Wake her up from her dreams into an American one. These irresistible fluffy pancakes, served in bed, melt hearts in seconds. Stack them high and drizzle with honey, chocolate, or maple syrup (plus crispy bacon), a glass of fresh orange juice, and a handful of fresh berries.

Lunch

Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheese Bruschetta

This dish tastes incredible even if soups aren’t your strong suit. If you can’t find flavorful large tomatoes, use cherry or plum tomatoes. The creamy soup, crispy bruschetta, and intoxicating aroma will leave a lasting impression on her—and on you.

Grilled Lamb Chops with Fresh Herbs

A man who knows how to cook lamb chops is a man worth keeping. Or so the saying goes. Half the success comes from high-quality meat, so if you don’t have a favorite butcher yet, now’s the time to find one. Marinate the chops for a few hours and grill for just a few minutes.

Moroccan Chicken Tagine

This time, most of the effort goes into your shopping list. That’s the beauty of owning a tagine pot—it does most of the work for you. Just make sure you have all the spices ready to cook this North African-inspired meal. Expect bold, peppery flavors!

Dinner

Shrimp with Sea Salt and Sichuan Pepper

If she loves seafood—especially shrimp—you’ve hit the jackpot. The magic of shrimp is that even the simplest recipes look and taste spectacular. Add a side of rice, though we doubt she’ll take her eyes off the shrimp. Or you. Or the shrimp again. Or you again.

Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta

Light, low-carb, meat-free, gluten-free—yet completely delightful from the first to the last bite. You’ll earn bonus points for not picking a classic lasagna and feel lighter after dinner. Perfect for a white night… like ricotta.

Pear Tarte Tatin

Now that she’s seen you nail every move, she’ll expect a grand finale—probably involving chocolate. But what if you surprise her again with a delicate French tart? Pear Tarte Tatin (she probably expected apples!) served with vanilla and walnut ice cream will do the trick. Light, elegant, and fragrant with caramelized pears.