Love at First Bite: Mint Fudge Truffles

Countdown to Valentine's Day: 13 days

Ah, St. Valentine's Day. A holiday celebrating love, commitment, and the consumption of all things sugary. After Halloween, Valentine's Day is the most candy-centric holiday of the year. As the About.com Guide to Candy, it is my sworn duty to provide you with the best candy recipes to help you celebrate in style. For the next two weeks, I'll post a Valentine's recipe every day, ranging from decadent truffles to giant kisses, from red hot marshmallows to chocolate-dipped fruit. You're sure to find something to tickle your sweet tooth, even if you aren't in the Valentine's spirit.

Our first entry is Mint Fudge Truffles. The recipe for these beautiful striped candies is reminiscent of many fudge recipes, as opposed to the traditional ganache-based truffles. These truffles are smooth, creamy, and refreshingly minty. Mint and chocolate are a natural flavor combination, and a few of these truffles are the perfect ending to a romantic Valentine's Day dinner.

For today's Superbowl Food Exchange, Saad, the Guide to Middle Eastern Food, suggests:
Baba Ghannouj – Eggplant Dip
This creamy eggplant dip is smokey, and just bursting with flavor! Serve with warm toasted pita wedges for an appetizer your guests will never forget.

Stuffed Grape Leaves
Vine leaves stuffed with ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices makes for the perfect, filling appetizer! Served hot, this appetizer is sure to be a crowd pleaser.