Makin' & Bakin' Mondays - Valentine's Day Dinner

*Photo credited here.

Instead of posting what I've already made this week, I'm going to tell you what I'm making tonight for Valentine's Day!

If you're looking for a low-stress and DELICIOUS dinner to cook for someone special, or to have waiting for you when YOU get home from work, try this Amazing Crock-Pot Pork Tenderloin. Seriously, it's pretty awesome. I made it once before and could not get over how tender and juicy it is.

Since I'm not sure what time my husband will get off work, this is perfect because it will be ready whenever I need it to be! After 4 hours, I'll just turn it to warm and we'll have a hot dinner ready! Served with a side of asparagus and (instant) mashed potatoes, this SUPER easy dinner always seems special.

Amazing Pork Tenderloin In the Slow Cooker
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours

Ingredients:
1 (2lb) pork tenderloin
1 (1 oz) envelope dry onion soup mix
1 cup water
3/4 cup red wine
3 tablespoons minces garlic
3 tablespoons soy sauce
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Place pork tenderloin in a slow cooker with the contents of the soup packet. Pour water, wine and soy sauce over the top turning the pork to coat. Carefully spread garlic over the pork, leaving as much on top of the roast during cooking as possible. Sprinkle with pepper, cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours. Serve with cooking liquid on the side as au jus.

As soon as we're ready for our dinner, I'll put the asparagus on a cookie sheet, coat everything with a little cooking spray and toss some kosher salt on and let it cook for about 15 minutes at 400 degrees. While that's in the oven, I'll make up some instant mashed potatoes. I like to add a little Parmesan cheese & sour cream to make the potatoes a little "fluffier".

Photo credited here.

And for dessert, boy do I WISH we had a Kilwin's nearby because their caramel chocolate candied apple is TO DIE FOR! But since we don't, I'm just going to go downtown and pick up a few "special" chocolates. Hmm, they might even have a chocolate caramel apple there, I'll have to see! But I'd rather pay just as much for a few delicious chocolates than have to have a big box of valentine's day chocolates! Maybe I'll even make my OWN caramel chocolate apple ... I'll be sure to let you know if I do!

But until then, I have some MAJOR rearranging planned today- mostly involving my crafting supplies and a few errands to run. I hope EVERYONE feels especially loved on Valentine's day. By your loved one or your family and friends.