By Judith Lazarus

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Tropical Sunset Smoothie Cocktail

Chilled Asparagus and Tomato Salad

Smoked Salmon Heart with Citrus Creme Fraiche on Corn Blini Appetizer

Hot Soba Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms

Cinnamon Sugar Crepes with Fresh Berrie Compote and Orange Glaze

Music is the food of love, Shakespeare said. Inspired chefs create edible music with imagination and fresh ingredients, and we’ve collected recipes from some top spa chefs to help you make beautiful music with your sweetheart. They’re light, delicious, and easy to prepare. Slice, dice, and assemble the ingredients early, so you can savor an elegant but simple party that won’t leave you too tired to enjoy the rest of the evening. These recipes each serve two, but they’re easily adjusted up or down, in case you’re celebrating with people you love or if you are your own best Valentine this year. Whatever the case, enjoy the concert.

CHILLED ASPARAGUS AND TOMATO SALAD

Executive Chef Christopher Blobaum
Aquaterra Spa at The Surf & Sand Resort, Laguna Beach, California

For Asparagus Salad

12 asparagus spears, peeled, blanched and chilled

2 vine-ripened tomatoes, washed and sliced horizontally into thirds

1/2 tsp. sesame seeds, toasted

1 cup baby field greens

For Lemon Soy Dressing (makes 1 cup)

1/4 cup light soy sauce

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 tsp. finely diced shallots

1/2 cup peanut oil

2 tsp. sesame oil

sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Preparation

Place soy sauce, lemon juice, and shallots in blender. Slowly add oils. Check seasoning. Arrange salad on chilled plate by layering seasoned tomatoes and asparagus spears. Allow for three slices of tomato with three asparagus spears between each layer. Top with baby greens and sesame seeds. Drizzle one tablespoon vinaigrette around tomatoes over each serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

TROPICAL SUNSET SMOOTHIE COCKTAIL

Spa Bistro Chef Dan Koommoo
Revive Spa, JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, Phoenix, Arizona

Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks

1/2 cup fresh pineapple juice

1/2 ripe mango chunks

1/2 cup fresh strawberries

1 tsp. Splenda sugar substitute

2 cups crushed ice

Preparation

Place fruit, juice, and Splenda in blender first, then top with crushed ice.

Purée on medium speed for 30 to 45 seconds.

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