Judging by America's obsession with possessive, moody vampires and young entrepreneurs with a taste for domination, we have a national fascination with the darker side of love. Here's an idea for those not interested in the usual pink, sweet and simple homemade treat: dark and chewy DIY black licorice.

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Are you looking for a Valentine's Day snack that's as easy on the hips as it is to make? Orange and chocolate is a classic combination, but this version has a grown up twist. Can you guess what it is? More

Looking for a sweet way to dress up your soups, salads or stews? Sophistimom has an easy step-by-step tutorial for cutting carrots into heart-shaped coins perfect for Valentine's Day, or anytime you want to add a little love to your cooking.

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Abstaining from alcohol this Valentine's Day? There's no reason you can't enjoy a cheery pink cocktail — or make that mocktail. These five drinks are refreshing and festive, and you'll find something for everyone, whether you're spending the holiday with a partner, your kids, or a group of friends. More

Valentine's Day usually arrives with all the violence of a sugar bomb, leaving spatters of frosting and smears of chocolate in its wake, so I'm always attracted to gentler, more savory ways to mark the holiday. So these goat cheese hearts from Joy the Baker are a total delight! Want to see how she makes them? More

I have a romantic history with chocolate pies. It doesn't matter if it's my grandmother's microwave chocolate pie, chocolate chess pie, chocolate pudding pie, or brownie pie. I never discriminate. However, this satiny, creamy, light-as-a-feather French silk pie may have just nudged itself to my winner's circle. More

Nothing says "Valentine's Day" like those little conversation hearts that say cute things like "Love You" or "Be Mine." They're adorable and colorful and sweet. The only problem is that they're chalky and powdery and taste kind of awful, don't they? I don't know about you, but I'd much rather give my love a cookie. 

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Conversation hearts may be the unofficial candy of Valentine's Day, but there are certainly tastier treats out there to share with loved ones. I have never been a fan of the flavor and texture of conversation hearts, but I do love the look and the opportunity to convey an affectionate message. Here are five fun and delicious plays on the conversation heart to give to family and friends next month. More

One of our favorite summer meals is steak from the grill. But many of us simply do not have access to a grill, at least not on a daily basis. If you're craving that quintessential taste of summer cook-outs, the taste of a juicy steak with crisp, peppered crust, we have you covered. No, you don't need a grill; yes, you can make a perfect steak indoors.

Here is an absolutely foolproof, easy, and quick way to make a steak indoors, in the oven. Add a loaf of bread, a salad, and a bottle of wine, and you have an easy and delicious meal. No grill required.

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Sorrel is not the most common of spring greens to find laying around most kitchens. It can be pretty tart and even acidic, and a lot of folks simply aren't sure what to do with it. The flip-side is that sorrel can be so exquisite when paired well: It has a fresh bite that epitomizes spring, and while it can be too much to eat on its own as a raw salad, there are so many dishes that brighten tremendously with a smattering of this tender green.
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