But just over half of Scots surveyed (53 percent) said they’d avoid cooking on a first date for fear of turning someone off with poor cooking skills.

 

The poll of 2,000 people across the UK, found that a nearly a quarter of Scots surveyed (23 per cent) said their main reason for avoiding the kitchen was because they “can’t cook” (compared to the UK average of 18 per cent).

The research also found that 17 per cent of Scots feared that cooking a meal on a first date might scupper their chances of securing a second date, while 44 per cent said it would be too intimate to dine at home.

However the poll's findings do not apply to more established couples:  half of all Scots (50 per cent) opt to eat at home, if given the choice of dining in or eating out.

The study reveals that Scots are a bunch of lazy romantics. Nearly two thirds of those questioned (63 per cent) prefer to be cooked for by a partner, than don the pinny themselves.

 

And 41 per cent of those questioned only ever cook for a partner on a special occasion.

The supermarket has just launched its ‘Menu from Waitrose’ range of restaurant quality dine-in meals, in time for everyone who wants to enjoy a meal at home on Valentine’s Day, while reducing the stress factor.

Waitrose executive chef Neil Nugent says:

 

"Our study shows many Scots are just too scared to get in the kitchen on a first date, for fear of spoiling their chances.  But making the effort to cook will clearly win you brownie points.  So if you can’t cook, fear not.  Our new range is ideal for cooks who want to “fake it” in the kitchen on Valentine’s Day.”

 

All dishes include the Waitrose Quality and Satisfaction Guarantee. * Waitrose Quality & Satisfaction Guaranteed - we are so confident in the quality and taste of our Menu From Waitrose range that if you are not happy with a product, tell us and we will replace it and refund you.