This recipe is part of a two-part 3-course meal menu. 

Valentine's Day is an opportunity to show the people we love how much we appreciate, but really with a small gesture. While some make grander expressions of love and romance, many people believe this has become over-commercialized, taking away from the occasion's original sentiment and genuine spirit. Nevertheless, a ton of us still celebrate. 

You should be showing your significant other or family love all the time, but there is no harm I think in doing something special on February 14th!

Gifts are exchanged, but one of the most significant ways to celebrate is to either dine out somewhere or have a romantic dinner at home.

If you like some structure to your meals, you'll want a clear cut, starter, entrée, and dessert!

This is a refreshing salad the lovebird can enjoy without getting too full and getting their greens in before diving into the main course.

The strawberries add a romantic flair as well as some sweetness and tanginess inherent in berries. The pecans add crunch, the goat cheese more tang and texture, and well, who doesn't love avocados!?

I hope you enjoy this starter and make it your go-to salad. You can also make this dish for a light fare lunch or dinner. 

Ingredients

5-ounces arugula

1 cup strawberries

1/4 cup pecans

1/4 goat cheese

1 Hass avocado, sliced and quartered

Vinaigrette:

1 teaspoon mustard

1/3 cup olive oil

3 tablespoons sherry

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Make the vinaigrette! In a small bowl, whisk the ingredients together and set aside.

Assemble your salad. In a large bowl, toss the arugula in about a tablespoon of the vinaigrette. Top with the washed, halved or quartered strawberries, avocado, nuts, and goat cheese.

Transfer to a serving plate and drizzle the remaining dressing.

Serve with fresh bread and season additionally if necessary.