35+ Irresistible Valentine’s Day Canadian Recipes to Make This Day Special

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to share love, laughter, and of course, delicious food with someone special.

If you’re looking to surprise your loved one with something truly unique and heartwarming, why not try adding a Canadian twist to your celebration?

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, cozy brunch, or sweet treats, Canadian cuisine offers a rich variety of flavors and ingredients that will make your Valentine’s Day meal unforgettable.

From indulgent maple-infused desserts to savory lobster and beef dishes, these 35+ Valentine’s Day Canadian recipes offer a little something for everyone.

Not only will they showcase your culinary skills, but they’ll also impress your date with a taste of Canada’s finest ingredients.

So grab your apron, light the candles, and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure that celebrates both love and the beauty of Canadian food.

35+ Irresistible Valentine’s Day Canadian Recipes to Make This Day Special

This Valentine’s Day, make your celebration even more special with these 35+ Valentine’s Day Canadian recipes.

From decadent lobster poutine to maple-glazed salmon, the flavors of Canada will elevate your meal to new heights.

Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or preparing a feast for friends and family, these recipes are sure to create lasting memories and fill the evening with delicious moments.

With the perfect blend of sweet and savory, these Canadian-inspired dishes will undoubtedly add a warm touch to your Valentine’s Day.

So go ahead, show your love through food and indulge in these delightful Canadian recipes!

Maple-Glazed Salmon with Cranberry Couscous

This dish beautifully combines the sweetness of Canadian maple syrup with the rich, buttery flavor of Atlantic salmon. Paired with a tangy cranberry couscous, this recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also perfect for showcasing your culinary flair. A light yet satisfying meal that sets a romantic and health-conscious tone for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 3 tbsp pure Canadian maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 cup couscous
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple glaze generously over the fillets.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, heat broth in a medium saucepan until boiling. Add couscous and cranberries, then cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the couscous and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve the salmon over a bed of cranberry couscous, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This Maple-Glazed Salmon with Cranberry Couscous is the perfect Valentine’s Day recipe to showcase Canadian flavors in an elegant and approachable way. The tender, flaky salmon paired with the sweet-tart couscous creates a dish that will leave a lasting impression on your loved one.

Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction and Saskatoon Berry Sauce

For a truly indulgent Valentine’s meal, this beef tenderloin recipe combines luxury with the unique taste of Saskatoon berries. The succulent, perfectly seared beef is enhanced by a rich red wine and Saskatoon berry reduction, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity. This restaurant-quality dish is sure to turn your dinner table into a fine dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 beef tenderloin steaks (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1/4 cup Saskatoon berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
2. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove and let rest under foil.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and deglaze the skillet with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Add Saskatoon berries and honey to the skillet and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in butter for a glossy finish.
5. Drizzle the sauce over the beef tenderloin and serve with your choice of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

This Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction and Saskatoon Berry Sauce is a showstopper, perfect for impressing your partner on Valentine’s Day. The deep, rich flavors of the sauce elevate the tender beef to a new level, ensuring a memorable and romantic meal.

Maple Sugar Pie with a Pecan Crust

For a sweet ending to your Valentine’s Day celebration, this Maple Sugar Pie with a Pecan Crust is an absolute must-try. Inspired by Quebec’s traditional tarte au sucre, this pie is rich, buttery, and decadently sweet. The addition of pecans in the crust adds a delightful nuttiness, making this dessert unforgettable.

Ingredients:
For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups crushed pecans
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 1 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine pecans, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, cream, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla. Gradually pour the warm syrup mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set. Cool completely before serving.

This Maple Sugar Pie with a Pecan Crust is a love letter to Canadian desserts and the perfect finale to your Valentine’s Day feast. Its rich, sweet flavor and nutty crust make every bite a delightful celebration of love and indulgence.

Canadian Lobster Poutine with Cheese Curds

Take the classic Canadian comfort food, poutine, to the next level with a luxurious lobster twist. This Valentine’s Day, surprise your loved one with this indulgent recipe featuring golden fries, squeaky cheese curds, and succulent lobster meat drizzled with a rich butter sauce. It’s a decadent treat that pairs indulgence with Canadian heritage, creating a dish that’s both romantic and memorable.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, roughly chopped
• 1 cup cheese curds
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken or seafood stock
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potato fries in olive oil, season with salt, and bake for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly add stock, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the fries on a serving platter. Sprinkle cheese curds over the fries, then pour the hot butter sauce over the top to melt the cheese.
4. Add the chopped lobster meat and garnish with fresh chives. Serve immediately.

This Canadian Lobster Poutine is the epitome of indulgence and the perfect Valentine’s Day surprise for someone who loves comfort food with a gourmet flair. The creamy sauce, fresh lobster, and classic cheese curds combine for a rich, unforgettable dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Wild Blueberry Bannock with Honey Butter

Bannock is a beloved bread in Canadian Indigenous cuisine, and adding wild blueberries gives it a sweet, romantic twist. This easy-to-make bread pairs wonderfully with creamy honey butter, creating a cozy treat for your Valentine’s Day breakfast or dessert. It’s a heartfelt way to honor Canadian traditions while creating a special memory with your loved one.

Ingredients:
For the bannock:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup wild blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the honey butter:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water, stirring until a dough forms. Gently fold in the blueberries.
3. Roll the dough into a circle or oval shape, about 1 inch thick. Place on the baking sheet and brush with oil.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, mix softened butter and honey until smooth.
6. Serve the bannock warm with honey butter spread on top.

This Wild Blueberry Bannock with Honey Butter is a sweet nod to Canada’s Indigenous roots, perfect for Valentine’s Day. Its rustic charm and the blend of warm, comforting flavors make it an excellent way to celebrate love with a Canadian twist.

Chocolate Maple Fondue with Fresh Fruit

Valentine’s Day isn’t complete without a touch of chocolate. This Chocolate Maple Fondue is a Canadian-inspired dessert featuring rich dark chocolate sweetened with pure maple syrup. Paired with fresh fruit for dipping, this interactive dessert is perfect for sharing and makes for an intimate and playful end to your romantic evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Assorted fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, bananas, apple slices, and pineapple chunks)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine chocolate chips, maple syrup, and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Pour the melted chocolate into a fondue pot to keep warm.
3. Arrange the fresh fruit on a platter for dipping.
4. Use skewers to dip the fruit into the chocolate and enjoy.

This Chocolate Maple Fondue is a playful, romantic dessert that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. Its rich, velvety chocolate paired with the natural sweetness of maple syrup makes for an indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare yet unforgettable. Share the love and savor every dip!

Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

This Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The chicken is coated in a tangy and sweet glaze made from pure Canadian maple syrup and Dijon mustard, while the roasted vegetables add a rustic, hearty touch. This meal embodies warmth and love, ideal for a cozy evening in.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 lb parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 lb baby potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
4. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken in the pan, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting the chicken with the pan juices every 30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

This Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables is a delightful centerpiece for your Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of sweet, tangy glaze and tender chicken creates a heartwarming dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a perfect way to celebrate love.

Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

This Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake is a decadent dessert inspired by the iconic Canadian Nanaimo bars. It features a creamy cheesecake layer with the signature flavors of chocolate and coconut, topped with a rich ganache. This indulgent treat is sure to impress your Valentine, offering the perfect blend of classic Canadian flavor and sophisticated presentation.

Ingredients:
For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the ganache topping:

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the crust.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let cool completely.
5. In a small saucepan, heat the cream until steaming. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Pour over the cooled cheesecake.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

This Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of a beloved Canadian treat with the creamy texture of cheesecake. It’s an impressive Valentine’s Day finale that will leave your partner craving more.

Wild Game Tourtière

Tourtière is a traditional French Canadian meat pie, and this version uses wild game meat for a rich and earthy flavor. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, this dish is warm, hearty, and full of love, showcasing a deep connection to Canadian culinary traditions. The flaky crust and aromatic filling make it a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:
For the pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4–1/2 cup ice water

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground wild game meat (venison, elk, or bison)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the pastry: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Divide in two, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Cook the filling: In a skillet, cook the meats until browned. Add onion, garlic, and spices, cooking until fragrant. Stir in stock, reduce heat, and simmer until liquid is absorbed.
4. Roll out one dough disk to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Add the meat filling, then top with the second rolled-out disk. Seal and crimp the edges.
5. Cut slits into the top crust for ventilation. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

This Wild Game Tourtière is a hearty and flavorful way to bring Canadian heritage to your Valentine’s Day table. The warm spices and rich meat filling wrapped in a buttery crust make it a dish full of tradition, comfort, and love.

Lobster Poutine with Tarragon Butter Sauce

Lobster Poutine with Tarragon Butter Sauce elevates the beloved Canadian dish into a luxurious Valentine’s Day treat. Featuring crispy fries, cheese curds, succulent lobster, and a rich tarragon butter sauce, this indulgent dish is perfect for sharing with someone special. It’s an unforgettable combination of comfort and sophistication.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen French fries, cooked according to package directions
• 1/2 lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup cheese curds
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh tarragon, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fries and keep them warm.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in tarragon and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange fries on a platter. Top with cheese curds and lobster meat. Drizzle with the tarragon butter sauce.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra tarragon if desired.

This Lobster Poutine with Tarragon Butter Sauce combines the rich flavors of lobster and cheese with crispy fries, creating a Valentine’s Day meal that’s both decadent and memorable. It’s a delightful twist on a Canadian classic that’s sure to impress your loved one.

Maple Glazed Salmon with Cranberry Quinoa

Maple Glazed Salmon with Cranberry Quinoa is a vibrant and healthy dish bursting with Canadian-inspired flavors. The sweet and savory maple glaze pairs beautifully with the rich salmon, while the tart cranberries and nutty quinoa add a delightful contrast. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Brush the glaze over the salmon fillets.
3. Bake salmon for 12–15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté cooked quinoa with cranberries and pecans for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve the salmon over the cranberry quinoa, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This Maple Glazed Salmon with Cranberry Quinoa is a light yet indulgent option for Valentine’s Day. The harmonious flavors and stunning presentation make it a meal worth savoring with someone special.

Raspberry Maple Tarts with Whipped Cream

Raspberry Maple Tarts with Whipped Cream are the perfect sweet ending to a Valentine’s Day meal. These individual tarts feature a buttery crust filled with tangy raspberry jam and sweet Canadian maple syrup, topped with fluffy whipped cream. They’re simple to make yet incredibly elegant, adding a romantic flair to your dessert table.

Ingredients:

• 1 package pre-made tart shells (12 shells)
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange tart shells on a baking sheet.
2. In each tart shell, spoon 1 tsp of raspberry jam and drizzle with maple syrup.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tart shells are golden brown. Let cool completely.
4. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
5. Top each tart with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a fresh raspberry.

These Raspberry Maple Tarts with Whipped Cream are a delightful way to end your Valentine’s Day celebration. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser, offering a touch of Canadian charm to your romantic evening.

Beef Tenderloin with Whiskey Peppercorn Sauce

For a truly indulgent Valentine’s Day dinner, Beef Tenderloin with Whiskey Peppercorn Sauce is the ultimate choice. This dish features a perfectly seared, tender beef tenderloin steak paired with a rich and flavorful whiskey-infused peppercorn sauce. The combination of the savory beef and the smooth, slightly smoky sauce creates a decadent meal, ideal for celebrating with someone special.

Ingredients:

• 2 beef tenderloin steaks (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup whiskey
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns, crushed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the beef tenderloin steaks with salt and crushed black peppercorns.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add whiskey and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Stir in the beef broth and crushed peppercorns, simmering for 5 minutes until the sauce reduces by half.
5. Add heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve the steaks with the whiskey peppercorn sauce drizzled on top.

This Beef Tenderloin with Whiskey Peppercorn Sauce is a luxurious and flavorful dish that brings elegance and warmth to your Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of tender beef and a rich whiskey sauce is perfect for making the evening memorable and special.

Butternut Squash and Maple Soup

This creamy Butternut Squash and Maple Soup is the perfect starter for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner. The sweetness of the butternut squash combined with the depth of pure Canadian maple syrup creates a harmonious flavor profile. It’s comforting, heartwarming, and ideal for sharing with someone you care about. The subtle hint of maple syrup makes this soup feel like a true Canadian treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
• 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or sage for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the roasted squash to the pot along with vegetable broth and maple syrup. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).
5. Stir in coconut milk or cream, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh thyme or sage.

Butternut Squash and Maple Soup is a comforting and delicious starter that’s perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner. The balance of sweetness from the squash and maple syrup, along with the richness of the cream, makes this soup a heartwarming beginning to your special evening.

Canadian Butter Tarts

No Valentine’s Day celebration is complete without a sweet treat, and Canadian Butter Tarts are the perfect choice. This beloved Canadian dessert features a flaky pastry crust filled with a rich, buttery syrupy filling. The caramelized filling, made with brown sugar and butter, is a delicious contrast to the crisp, buttery shell. It’s a nostalgic and irresistible dessert that will have you and your Valentine swooning.

Ingredients:
For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2–4 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. For the crust: In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin.
3. For the filling: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in nuts if using.
4. Spoon the filling into the prepared crusts, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Canadian Butter Tarts are a timeless and delectable dessert that will add a sweet ending to your Valentine’s Day meal. With their rich, gooey filling and buttery crust, these tarts are an irresistible treat that will make your evening even sweeter.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!