Appetizer: Tomatoes and Mozzarella

• Start your meal with a light appetizer of tomatoes and mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes that are firm and bright red will be the most flavorful. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella and alternate them across the plate. Place a few basil leaves on top for garnish. Sprinkle with olive oil and a little salt and pepper to taste, or try olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a more intense flavor. Black or green olives are also a nice, salty accompaniment to the salad.
  
  

Main Course: Eggplant Parmigiana

• Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that is hearty, but not too heavy. By using fresh mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and unbreaded eggplant, you can keep the dish light but flavorful. If you have time and are comfortable with your skills in the kitchen, make a homemade tomato sauce. Store-bought tomato sauce seasoned to your taste on the stove top is a good alternative. This dish can be made earlier in the day, covered and stored in the refrigerator, then baked in the oven right before dinner.
  
  

Dessert: Vanilla Ice Cream Parfait with Strawberries and Balsamic Syrup

• Every romantic meal should end with a sweet dessert. This strawberry parfait will look like you spent a lot of time in the kitchen, but the process is relatively easy. Reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens, and then set it aside to cool. Toss sliced strawberries with some and let sit for about 10 minutes in sugar to release the juices. In a bowl or parfait glass, layer vanilla ice cream, strawberries and syrup and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or almonds.
  
  

Beverage: French 75 Cocktail

• If you're looking for something to serve besides basic champagne, a French 75 cocktail mixes gin, champagne or sparkling wine, lemon juice and simple syrup for a mix of sweet and sour. It is smooth yet flavorful. Mix 3 oz. gin, 1½ tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp simple syrup and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake for 20 seconds, pour into a glass and top with 3 oz. of champagne or sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon twist.