Built on a heart-shaped board, because sometimes you lean into the theme.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t need a reservation. Or a crowded restaurant. Or anything overly complicated.
This year, we were late to the reservation game. On a Saturday, no less. Add in our dislike of prix fixe menus, and staying in felt like the obvious move. We did Valentine’s our way instead: an incredible brunch, a stop at an art gallery, a wander through a record store… and a sweet + salty snack board for dinner.
I made it on a super cute heart-shaped board and paired it with a bottle of William Chris Enchanté (IYKYK).
Sweet. Salty. A little indulgent. A little unexpected.
The Vibe
Lights low. Music on. In your comfy pants.
The kind of evening where you linger at the table and refill the wine without asking.
If you’re setting the mood, light the Moi Candle: soft, clean, understated. Or go moodier with the Vinyl Candle if you plan on late-night cocktails to round out the evening.
What Goes On the Board
The magic is in contrast. You want bites that surprise each other. Sweet, salty, crunchy, creamy, mixing flavors and textures for unexpected, perfect bites.
We used:
- Sharp aged cheddar (the saltier, the better) with the crystalline crunch
- Chocolate-covered strawberries
- Salted marcona almonds and pecans
- Buttery shortbread cookies
- A small ramekin of cherry jam
- Sliced baguette
- Good butter topped with flakey seasalt
- Seasoned olive oil for dipping
- Small pretzels
- Spicy pepperoni
You could also add:
- A few slices of prosciutto
- Fresh raspberries for color
- Crackers for an extra crunchy element
The cheddar + dark chocolate combination is the secret. It’s rich and savory, then sweet and smooth — exactly how a Valentine’s board should taste.
Pro Tip: Take a piece of bread, spread it with salty butter, add cherry jam, and top with a bit of cheese. YUM.
How to Style a Heart-Shaped Board
A heart board gives a natural structure, so use it.
- Anchor the center with the star of the show: the strawberries.
- Use your small bowls to anchor the points of the heart.
- Fill in the rest along the shape of the heart.
The shape does the work for you. You just fill it thoughtfully.
What to Drink
- A bold red wine
- Sparkling rosé
- Champagne if you’re celebrating
We went bold red, but sweet + salty plays beautifully with bubbles.
When to Serve It
This board works anytime. The heart shape adds a little whimsy, but the concept works on any board, for any holiday, or just a regular Tuesday night.
- Date night at home
- A Galentine’s gathering
- A weekday dinner option when life is hectic, and cooking is a NOPE.
Valentine’s doesn’t have to be big grand gestures and a ton of money. Make it what you want it to be, with whoever you want it to be with. It's a day to appreciate the people in your life who bring you love and joy.
Good taste. Good company.
That’s the whole point.
— Ali
