25+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Dinner Salad Recipes to Impress Your Loved One

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your loved one just how much you care, and what better way to celebrate than with a romantic, homemade dinner?

While a candlelit dinner is a classic choice, adding a fresh, healthy, and vibrant salad to the mix can elevate the meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Whether you’re planning a simple night in or a lavish romantic dinner, salads that are beautiful, flavorful, and nutritious are a great way to start the evening off on the right foot.

From sweet and tangy fruit-infused greens to hearty, warm salads packed with roasted vegetables, we’ve rounded up 25+ irresistible Valentine’s Day dinner salad recipes that will impress and delight.

25+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Dinner Salad Recipes to Impress Your Loved One

Valentine’s Day is all about expressing love and appreciation for the special people in your life. By serving one of these 25+ dinner salad recipes, you’re not only offering a meal but a gesture that reflects thoughtfulness and care.

Each salad brings its unique combination of flavors, textures, and colors, creating a romantic and memorable dining experience that your loved one will cherish.

Whether you’re serving up a light, refreshing salad or a warm, hearty option, these recipes will ensure that your Valentine’s Day dinner is as special as the occasion itself.

Celebrate love, nourish your body, and create cherished moments with the perfect salad that complements your dinner.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A romantic twist on a classic, this strawberry spinach salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The mix of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans topped with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze creates a harmonious blend of flavors perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ⅓ cup candied pecans
• 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, layer the spinach and sliced strawberries.
2. Sprinkle the goat cheese and candied pecans evenly over the top.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Toss gently to combine, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

This salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate, offering a balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of acidity. It’s a light yet indulgent start to a romantic meal, showcasing the bright flavors of fresh ingredients.

Hearts of Palm and Avocado Citrus Salad

Celebrate love with a vibrant and refreshing hearts of palm and avocado citrus salad. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the tangy oranges and tender hearts of palm, while a honey-lime vinaigrette ties it all together.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed baby greens
• 1 cup sliced hearts of palm
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the baby greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Top with hearts of palm slices, avocado slices, and orange segments.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
5. Serve immediately.

This salad’s vibrant colors and bold flavors are ideal for Valentine’s Day. The interplay of creamy avocado and zesty citrus creates a refreshing yet satisfying dish that will leave your partner craving more.

Beet and Goat Cheese Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette

Rich in color and flavor, this beet and goat cheese salad is the epitome of elegance. With earthy beets, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, it’s a refined and romantic choice for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 2 large roasted beets, sliced
• 6 cups mixed arugula and baby greens
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts
• 3 tablespoons walnut oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Arrange the beet slices on top and sprinkle with goat cheese and walnuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together walnut oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and serve.

This salad’s luxurious combination of textures and flavors is perfect for setting a romantic tone. The beets’ natural sweetness, paired with the creamy goat cheese and nutty vinaigrette, makes this dish both beautiful and unforgettable.

Pomegranate Arugula Salad with Feta and Almonds

This pomegranate arugula salad is a celebration of love and flavor. The peppery arugula is perfectly balanced by sweet pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, and crunchy sliced almonds. A light lemon-honey dressing enhances every bite, making it ideal for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh arugula
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the arugula in a large salad bowl.
2. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and sliced almonds over the greens.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness and vibrancy of this romantic salad.

The pomegranate seeds add a burst of sweetness and color, while the feta and almonds provide contrasting textures. This elegant salad is sure to impress and delight your Valentine with its balance of flavors and presentation.

Caprese Salad with a Raspberry Reduction

Give the classic Caprese salad a romantic twist with a raspberry reduction. The sweetness of raspberries paired with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a dish that’s both sophisticated and easy to prepare for your Valentine’s dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on a serving platter. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers.
2. In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Simmer over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Strain if desired.
3. Drizzle the raspberry reduction over the salad.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

This salad takes the timeless combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil to the next level. The raspberry reduction adds a subtle sweetness and complexity, making it a memorable dish for Valentine’s Day.

Grilled Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Indulge your Valentine with this sophisticated grilled pear and blue cheese salad. The warm, caramelized pears are beautifully complemented by tangy blue cheese, spicy arugula, and a drizzle of honey mustard dressing.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, halved and cored
• 6 cups arugula
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the pear halves with olive oil and grill for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly caramelized. Slice each half into wedges.
2. Arrange arugula on a serving platter and top with grilled pear slices, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.

This salad combines warm, grilled fruit with creamy blue cheese for a luxurious dining experience. The contrast of flavors and textures makes it a stunning centerpiece for your Valentine’s Day dinner.

Raspberry Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

A delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors, this raspberry walnut salad is both elegant and refreshing. The fresh raspberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese pair beautifully with a maple vinaigrette, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day treat.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups mixed baby greens
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the mixed greens on a large platter or individual plates.
2. Scatter the raspberries, goat cheese, and walnuts over the greens.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
5. Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant Valentine’s Day appetizer.

The sweetness of the raspberries and maple syrup combined with the crunch of toasted walnuts creates a harmonious balance of flavors. This salad is a romantic and indulgent start to any meal.

Fig and Prosciutto Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing

This fig and prosciutto salad exudes sophistication and romance. The combination of fresh figs, salty prosciutto, and peppery arugula is elevated by a tangy-sweet honey Dijon dressing, making it a memorable dish for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 6 fresh figs, halved
• 4 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
• 6 cups arugula
• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the arugula on a serving platter.
2. Top with fig halves, pieces of prosciutto, and shaved Parmesan.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly.
5. Serve immediately and savor the unique blend of flavors.

This salad is perfect for a romantic dinner, as the figs and prosciutto provide a luxurious and decadent touch. The balance of sweetness, saltiness, and peppery notes makes it truly unforgettable.

Cranberry Kale Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This cranberry kale salad is a vibrant and healthy addition to a Valentine’s Day dinner. The earthy kale is brightened by sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and a citrusy orange vinaigrette that will leave you and your Valentine feeling refreshed.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups chopped kale, stems removed
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Massage the kale with a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes until tender.
2. Toss the kale with dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and feta cheese, if using.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately for a bright and flavorful experience.

This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious, with the cranberries adding pops of color and sweetness. The orange vinaigrette ties everything together, making it an ideal dish to share with someone special.

Avocado and Mango Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

This avocado and mango salad is a tropical and refreshing choice that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The creamy avocado pairs with the sweet, juicy mango, and the cilantro lime dressing adds a burst of flavor that brightens up each bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 large mango, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, mango, and red bell pepper.
2. Add the mixed greens and chopped cilantro to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately for a light and exotic start to your Valentine’s Day meal.

The combination of creamy avocado, sweet mango, and the tangy lime dressing creates a salad that is as refreshing as it is flavorful. Perfect for setting a romantic mood, this salad will transport you to a warm, tropical paradise.

Beet and Citrus Salad with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

This beet and citrus salad is full of color, flavor, and texture. Roasted beets, juicy citrus segments, and tangy goat cheese come together with a touch of honey and pistachios for a perfect Valentine’s Day salad that’s both hearty and light.

Ingredients:

• 2 large beets, roasted and sliced
• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup chopped pistachios
• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Layer the roasted beet slices and orange segments on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and chopped pistachios evenly over the salad.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve immediately.

This salad is an elegant and nutritious choice for Valentine’s Day, offering a beautiful combination of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors. The goat cheese adds creaminess, while the pistachios provide a satisfying crunch that completes the dish.

Warm Kale and Sweet Potato Salad with Tahini Dressing

This warm kale and sweet potato salad is both comforting and nutrient-rich, making it an excellent choice for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner. The roasted sweet potatoes and earthy kale are complemented by a creamy tahini dressing and a touch of pomegranate seeds for added texture and sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, massage the kale with a pinch of salt to soften.
3. In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and warm water to create a smooth dressing. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, toss the kale with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the roasted sweet potatoes and toss gently.
5. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the salad and top with pomegranate seeds and toasted pumpkin seeds.
6. Serve warm for a comforting, hearty Valentine’s Day salad.

The warm sweet potatoes provide a satisfying and slightly sweet contrast to the earthy kale. The tahini dressing adds a creamy richness, while the pomegranate seeds give a burst of freshness. This salad is hearty enough to be a main course for a cozy and romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This strawberry spinach salad is both visually stunning and perfectly balanced in flavor, making it an ideal choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Fresh strawberries, tender spinach, and toasted almonds are paired with a rich balsamic glaze for a combination that’s sweet, tangy, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the baby spinach and sliced strawberries on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta and toasted almonds over the top.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and syrupy. Let cool.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the balsamic glaze and whisk until well combined.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently.

This strawberry spinach salad is an elegant and delicious choice, perfect for adding a touch of romance to your Valentine’s Day. The balsamic glaze adds a hint of sweetness that complements the strawberries and balances the tangy feta and nutty almonds.

Pomegranate, Arugula, and Burrata Salad

This pomegranate, arugula, and burrata salad is a luxurious, festive dish that looks as good as it tastes. The peppery arugula pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart pomegranate seeds and creamy burrata, all enhanced by a light lemon vinaigrette. It’s a delightful starter that will wow your Valentine.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups arugula
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 large burrata ball, torn into pieces
• ½ cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the arugula on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. Top with pomegranate seeds, pieces of burrata, and candied pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and serve immediately.

This salad offers a beautiful combination of textures and flavors, from the crisp arugula to the creamy burrata and the pop of sweet-tart pomegranate. The candied pecans add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness, making this a show-stopping dish for a romantic evening.

Warm Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad

This warm quinoa and roasted vegetable salad is comforting and nourishing, perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of hearty quinoa, sweet roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini dressing makes for a fulfilling and heartwarming dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon warm water (to thin the dressing)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the zucchini, red bell pepper, sweet potato, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes or until vegetables are tender and caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, warm water, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the quinoa and vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

This warm salad is rich in flavors and textures, with the nutty quinoa and sweet roasted vegetables perfectly balanced by the creamy tahini dressing. It’s an ideal dish to enjoy on a chilly evening with your loved one, offering comfort and heartiness.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!