Valentine Tapas for Two

Name: Valentine Tapas for Two
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced; 100g goat cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction; 100g prosciutto, thinly sliced; Fresh basil leaves; 100g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup strawberries, hulled; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Ideas

I love creating intimate meals that make special occasions even more memorable, and this Valentine Tapas for Two recipe does just that. Each bite is a delightful experience, filled with harmonious flavors that celebrate love and togetherness. I’ve combined a variety of enticing ingredients that are both easy to prepare and fun to share. Whether it’s crispy crostini piled high with savory toppings or sweet treats to indulge in afterward, this spread brings an element of romance to the table that makes it perfect for celebrating love.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:55:38.620Z

When I first planned to make Valentine Tapas for Two, I wanted to create a menu that feels both elegant and comfortingly familiar. I experimented by blending classic Spanish flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in mouthwatering plates that are perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s all about presenting food that's not only delicious but visually appealing too!

One tip I discovered is to make the sauces and dips ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This way, you can focus on the atmosphere and savoring the moment, instead of feeling rushed in the kitchen on the special day. Pairing everything with a nice wine elevates the experience, making it truly unforgettable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors
Shareable dishes that enhance intimacy
Quick prep and easy cleanup for more quality time together

      

Crafting the Perfect Crostini

To elevate your crostini, I recommend using a combination of olive oil and garlic for a more aromatic flavor. Simply rub a cut clove of garlic on each baguette slice before drizzling with olive oil. Toasting them at the right temperature is key; keep an eye on the oven to avoid burning. You want them to be golden brown with a crispy texture that provides the perfect vessel for the toppings.

After spreading the goat cheese, ensure it’s evenly distributed to create a harmonious base for the toppings. Softened goat cheese complements the sweetness of the honey and the acidity of the balsamic reduction beautifully. If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with cream cheese or ricotta, but be mindful that these will alter the overall flavor profile.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The interplay between sweet and savory in this tapas spread is vital. The prosciutto’s saltiness balances the sweetness of the honey and the balsamic reduction. For extra depth, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a touch of chili flakes for some heat. Be sure to taste as you go to find your perfect flavor balance, particularly when adjusting the toppings on your crostini.

For a vegetarian alternative, swap out the prosciutto with roasted bell peppers or marinated artichokes to maintain the vibrant flavor without sacrificing texture. These ingredients still pair wonderfully with the goat cheese and tomatoes, making your tapas just as delightful and romantic.

Creating the Chocolate Experience

For the chocolate dip, using high-quality dark chocolate can significantly enhance the overall experience. Look for chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher for a rich, intense flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries. Melting the chocolate gradually via the microwave is critical; if overheated, it can seize and become unworkable. Stirring between intervals helps achieve that glossy consistency.

Once you’ve dipped the strawberries, consider drizzling a bit of the remaining melted chocolate over them for a decorative touch. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top before the chocolate sets for added texture and visual appeal. Just remember to let them cool completely on parchment paper so they don’t stick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful tapas experience:

Savory Tapas

1 baguette, sliced
100g goat cheese, softened
2 tablespoons honey
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon balsamic reduction
100g prosciutto, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves

Sweet Treats

100g dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup strawberries, hulled
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon sea salt

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped, let's move on to the fun part!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your romantic tapas:

Prepare the Crostini

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before spreading a layer of goat cheese on each slice.

Make the Toppings

Top the goat cheese crostini with cherry tomatoes, drizzle with balsamic reduction, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. For a savory finish, add a slice of prosciutto on top.

Prepare the Chocolate Dip

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Once melted, stir in sea salt.

Serve the Strawberries

Dip the strawberries into the melted chocolate and place them on a serving platter. Allow them to cool slightly to set the chocolate, then serve alongside your crostini.

Your Valentine Tapas for Two is now ready to enjoy! Set the table, light some candles, and savor the moment together.

Pro Tips

For a complete experience, consider serving these tapas with a bottle of red or rosé wine. It enhances both the flavors of the food and the romantic ambiance.

Storing and Preparing Ahead

If you're planning ahead, preparing the crostini and toppings in advance is a great time-saver. You can assemble the crostini a few hours before serving; just keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Assemble the crostini with the goat cheese spread, but wait to add the toppings until just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

For the chocolate-dipped strawberries, you can prepare them up to four hours in advance. Just ensure they are kept in a cool area to prevent the chocolate from melting or becoming sticky.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this tapas spread, presentation is key. Arrange your crostini on a wooden board or a colorful platter for an inviting atmosphere. Mixing in small bowls of additional balsamic reduction or honey allows guests to customize their bites, enhancing engagement and interaction during the meal.

Consider pairing this dish with a light, sparkling wine or a fruity sangria to complement the flavors. The effervescence of these drinks pairs well with the richness of the goat cheese and chocolate, elevating your romantic dinner even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the tapas in advance?

Yes, many components can be made ahead, such as the crostini and chocolate dip.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

Cream cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor.

→ Can I use different fruits with the chocolate?

Absolutely! Bananas or pineapple chunks can also work wonderfully with the chocolate dip.

→ Are these tapas suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes! You can simply omit the prosciutto and still have a delicious spread.