Valentine Tapas for Two

Name: Valentine Tapas for Two
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 100g Brie cheese; 100g prosciutto; 50g marinated olives; 1 handful of nuts (almonds or walnuts); A few slices of baguette; 150g button mushrooms; 50g cream cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 10 cherry tomatoes; 10 basil leaves; 100g mozzarella balls; Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Highlighted under: Family Cooking

I adore the idea of creating a romantic atmosphere with delicious bites to share, and these Valentine Tapas are just perfect for that! Each dish is designed to be simple yet flavorful, allowing us to enjoy the cooking experience as much as the dining. We bring together diverse flavors that spark joy and, of course, enhance the romance in the air. The combination of spicy, savory, and sweet elements creates a memorable culinary adventure perfect for any couple's celebration.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:29:34.844Z

When my partner and I decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home, we knew we wanted something special that didn’t require an elaborate meal. So, I set out to create these Valentine Tapas, which turned out to be a wonderful selection of flavors and colors on our dinner table. I focused on a mix of textures and tastes to keep it interesting and memorable.

The best part was the interactive aspect of sharing small plates, where we could enjoy each other’s company even more. By preparing dishes that complement each other, I was able to present a beautiful array that sparked both our appetites and our conversation!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        An array of flavors to keep your taste buds excited
Perfectly sized bites for sharing and enjoying together
Creates a romantic and intimate dining experience

      

Creating Your Perfect Cheese and Charcuterie Board

Selecting the right cheeses is key to a balanced cheese and charcuterie board. The Brie should be creamy and mild, which contrasts beautifully with the salty, savory notes of prosciutto. To elevate the pairing, consider including a sharp cheese, like aged cheddar or gouda, to add a different flavor profile. The nuts will add crunch and a lovely nuttiness that ties the elements together.

Presentation is also crucial. Arrange the items artfully on a wooden board or platter, using small bowls for olives and nuts to create visual variety. Don't forget to include a few berries or dried fruits—these can provide a sweet contrast that enhances the overall tasting experience.

Mastering the Art of Stuffed Mushrooms

When preparing stuffed mushrooms, make sure to choose firm button mushrooms that maintain their shape after baking. Removing the stems is essential, but don't discard them; they add flavor when finely chopped and mixed with the filling. Be careful not to overstuff the mushrooms—just fill until barely overflowing to ensure they bake evenly and don’t spill during cooking.

Baking at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes should yield perfectly golden mushrooms. Look for a slightly crisp top and a soft, creamy breast, indicating that the filling is cooked through but still retains moisture. If you're feeling adventurous, you can add cooked sausage or spinach to the filling for added depth.

Elevating Mini Caprese Skewers

Mini Caprese skewers are all about freshness. Choose ripe cherry tomatoes that are slightly firm but not hard, as they should burst with flavor. Using mozzarella balls soaked in olive oil can enhance the taste, while adding a sprinkle of sea salt before serving elevates the flavors further. You can also add a fresh basil leaf to the skewer for a color accent.

As for preparation, completing these skewers is quick, but do consider making them just before serving to prevent the basil from wilting. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze not only adds sweetness but also gives a gourmet finish. If you want a gluten-free version, skip the bread altogether or serve with gluten-free crackers alongside.

Ingredients

Cheese and Charcuterie Board

100g Brie cheese
100g prosciutto
50g marinated olives
1 handful of nuts (almonds or walnuts)
A few slices of baguette

Stuffed Mushrooms

150g button mushrooms
50g cream cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Mini Caprese Skewers

10 cherry tomatoes
10 basil leaves
100g mozzarella balls
Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Cheese and Charcuterie Board

Arrange the Brie cheese, prosciutto, marinated olives, nuts, and baguette slices on a serving board. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences.

Make the Stuffed Mushrooms

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove the stems from the mushrooms and finely chop them. In a bowl, mix chopped stems with cream cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stuff the mixture into each mushroom cap and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Assemble Mini Caprese Skewers

On small skewers, alternate cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, consider serving sparkling wine or a themed cocktail alongside your tapas to enhance the romantic atmosphere.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Brie isn’t available, you can substitute with Camembert or another creamy cheese that melts nicely. This maintains the rich, decadent quality needed for the board. Alternately, vegan cheese options exist that mimic Brie in texture, so it can accommodate dietary restrictions while still being indulgent.

For an alternative to prosciutto, consider turkey or chicken slices that echo the salty note without being as fatty. If you're attempting a vegetarian option, smoked or spiced tofu can provide a similar flavor profile that feels hearty and satisfying.

Make-Ahead Tips

Many elements of this tapas feast can be prepared in advance. The stuffed mushrooms can be assembled the day before; just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and cuts down on last-minute cooking stress.

The cheese and charcuterie board can also be set up in advance, but for the best taste and texture, add the nuts and bread just before serving. For the mini Caprese skewers, prepare all the ingredients ahead and skewer them shortly before dining for optimum freshness.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven set to 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, ensuring they heat through without becoming dry. Avoid microwaving, as this can change the texture.

The charcuterie board should be consumed within a day, especially if it contains meats and cheeses that are best fresh. Any remaining Caprese skewers should also be eaten promptly, but if necessary, store them without the balsamic glaze to preserve the freshness of the basil.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these tapas in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms and assemble the Caprese skewers a few hours ahead of time. Just bake the mushrooms before serving.

→ What can I substitute for the cheese?

If you prefer a vegan option, you can use plant-based cream cheese and skip the Brie or find a vegan cheese alternative.

→ Is this recipe suitable for a picnic?

Yes! These tapas travel well. Just pack the cheese board items and stuffed mushrooms in a cooler, and they’ll be great for a picnic.

→ Can I add more items to the tapas?

Definitely! Feel free to add more variety such as bruschetta, shrimp cocktails, or mini quiches to suit your tastes.