Everybody needs a little lift now and then and Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to share the love! I’ve got a nasty cold at the moment and in the midst of feeling supremely sorry for myself I heard a knock at the door. Imagine my delight when the delivery man (who was probably shocked at my unkempt, ill appearance) gave me a Valentine’s hamper from Co-operative food. I had no clue this was coming and the surprise (along with the contents) really lifted my spirits! It reminded me how seemingly small acts of caring can really mean a lot to the recipient. So this Valentine’s Day show whoever you love (partner, friend or just yourself!) how much you care by taking the time to enjoy a wonderful breakfast or #LoveAtFirstLight

The co-op have partnered with Fred Sireix from First Dates to help Britain share the love. Pop over to >www.co-operativefood.co.uk/breakfasts to find a wondrous selection of romantic breakfast recipes. I’ve shared my favourite below.

French toast

Ingredients:

Strawberries

5 Loved by Us medium eggs

Nutella Hazelnut Chocolate Spread

5 tbsp caster sugar

6 slices of The Co-operative farmhouse bread

8g Loved by Us Scottish butter unsalted

70ml Semi-skimmed milk

Equipment:

Baking tray

Large bowl

Skillet

Spatula

Heart shaped cutter, knife or scissors

How to make:

Step 1 – Mix the eggs, milk and sugar in a large bowl and whisk until well blended.

Step 2 – Dip each slice of bread into the bowl, allowing it to soak up some of the mixture.

Step 3 – Melt a knob of butter over a large skillet on a medium heat and add the slices of bread. Fry until golden brown on both sides, flipping when necessary before plating up.

Step 4 – Using a heart shaped cutter, knife or even clean scissors, carefully cut  the toast into heart shapes.

Step 5 – Spread Nutella on each slice of toast and top with strawberries. Layer each slice on top of the other into a mini french toast mountain and tuck (back) in.