Valentine Tapas for Two

Name: Valentine Tapas for Two
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 150g Spanish chorizo, sliced; 100g manchego cheese, cubed; 1 small baguette, sliced; Olive oil, for drizzling; Fresh rosemary, for garnish; 200g strawberries, sliced; 150g dark chocolate, melted; 2 teaspoons sea salt; Whipped cream, for serving

Highlighted under: Family Planning

I always find that sharing small plates fosters intimacy, especially on Valentine's Day. That's why I've crafted this 'Valentine Tapas for Two' recipe. Each bite is designed to create a memorable experience—perfect for enjoying a cozy evening at home. From savory bites to sweet treats, these tapas will spark joy in your celebration. Get ready to indulge in flavors and textures that not only delight the palate but also the heart. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a fun night in, this is a recipe just for you.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:17:36.055Z

When I first created this dish, I wanted to celebrate the essence of romance through food. I tried to combine flavors that would complement each other while still being light enough for a gathering. The secret? Balancing rich, creamy elements with fresh, zesty ones for a full-bodied experience.

As I worked on the recipes, I discovered that plating them beautifully elevates the entire experience. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of colorful herbs can transform a simple dish into a work of art. This attention to detail makes a lasting impression.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of savory and sweet bite-sized treats.
Creative presentation that makes every count.
Perfect for setting a romantic mood and igniting conversation.

      

Creating the Perfect Pairing

When crafting your Valentine tapas, consider how flavors work together. The spicy, smoky notes of the chorizo beautifully contrast with the nutty, mild taste of manchego cheese. While preparing your platter, place the chorizo and cheese together to encourage guests to try a bite of each for an enhanced flavor experience. A drizzle of olive oil not only adds richness but also acts as a binding element for all the ingredients.

The toasted baguette slices serve as an ideal vehicle for your savory tapas. Ensure your oven is preheated to about 375°F (190°C), and keep an eye on them while toasting. A golden crisp with a slight yield when pressed is exactly what you’re aiming for. You can easily substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread or crackers if desired.

Timing Is Everything

With tapas, timing is crucial to serving everything at its best. Start with the savory tapas, as the cooked chorizo will retain its warmth while you prepare the sweet ones. Ensure to keep an eye on the heat; medium is perfect for achieving that crispy texture without burning. Once the chorizo is ready, you can toast the baguette slices in the same pan for added flavor, taking about 4-5 minutes until they are just turning golden brown.

While the savory ingredients are coming together, prepare the melted chocolate for your sweet tapas. Use a double boiler or microwave on low power to prevent scorching. Dipping strawberries immediately after slicing ensures a fresh and glossy chocolate coating—allow about 1-2 minutes for the chocolate to slightly cool before dipping to avoid losing that perfect texture.

Ingredients

Savory Tapas

150g Spanish chorizo, sliced
100g manchego cheese, cubed
1 small baguette, sliced
Olive oil, for drizzling
Fresh rosemary, for garnish

Sweet Tapas

200g strawberries, sliced
150g dark chocolate, melted
2 teaspoons sea salt
Whipped cream, for serving

Gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Savory Tapas

In a pan over medium heat, add the sliced chorizo and cook until slightly crispy. Drizzle olive oil on the baguette slices and toast them until golden. Arrange the crispy chorizo, manchego cheese, and toasted bread on a platter, garnished with fresh rosemary.

Prepare the Sweet Tapas

Dip the strawberry slices into the melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt before placing on a serving plate. Serve with a side of whipped cream for dipping.

Now that your tapas are ready, it’s time to enjoy the feast!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider including some crunchy nuts or olives on your platter. They can elevate to a whole new level of flavor and enjoyment.

Garnishing Your Platters

Aesthetics play an important role in serving food, especially for a romantic occasion. For the savory tapas, the addition of fresh rosemary not only brightens the colors but also infuses a delightful aroma. When arranging your platter, consider varying heights and textures; for example, stacking some chorizo slices and elegantly placing cheese cubes can elevate its visual appeal.

For the sweet tapas, a final sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate-dipped strawberries creates a beautiful contrast in both color and flavor. Consider serving these on a delicate dessert platter alongside a bowl of whipped cream, which provides a luscious dip that balances the richness of the chocolate.

Make-Ahead Tips

Although these tapas are best enjoyed fresh, there are ways to prepare ahead to ease your evening. You can slice the chorizo and cheese a few hours in advance; just make sure to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows you to focus on the cooking process when your date arrives, ensuring everything feels special without the added stress.

For sweet tapas, dip the strawberries into the chocolate and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. You can chill them for a few hours until the chocolate hardens, making them easy to assemble at the last minute. Avoid over-dipping; a light coating gives a more appealing look and allows the strawberries' flavor to shine through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Brie or goat cheese also work wonderfully.

→ What if I don’t have chorizo?

You can substitute with any cured meat like salami or prosciutto for a similar flavor profile.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Replace the chorizo with marinated olives and add some grilled vegetables for a vibrant option.

→ Can I prepare the tapas in advance?

To keep things fresh, prepare the savory items up to a couple of hours in advance, but it’s best to dip the strawberries right before serving.