All products are selected by our editorial team for quality. If you buy through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, and what better way to show your affection than by preparing a delicious and memorable picnic for two?
Whether you’re planning a romantic outdoor date in a local park, a cozy backyard picnic, or even a beachside getaway, the right recipes can elevate your picnic experience.
From savory snacks to decadent desserts, a Valentine’s Day picnic can be a delightful feast that not only captures the spirit of the occasion but also allows you to enjoy quality time with your significant other.
In this article, we’ve gathered 30+ creative and mouthwatering picnic recipes, perfect for impressing your loved one this Valentine’s Day.
These recipes include everything from easy-to-make appetizers and salads to decadent desserts that are sure to make your picnic feel extra special.
So, grab your picnic basket and let’s dive into these delightful, love-inspired dishes!
30+ Easy Valentine’s Day Picnic Recipes for a Romantic Outdoor Feast
A Valentine’s Day picnic is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to connect, enjoy each other’s company, and create lasting memories.
With these 30+ Valentine’s Day picnic recipes, you’ll have a wide variety of options to craft the perfect spread that suits your style and taste.
Whether you’re planning a light, casual picnic or a lavish outdoor feast, these recipes will ensure that you enjoy every moment.
So, pack your basket with love, and let the flavors and romance flow freely.
Heartfelt Strawberry Spinach Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and romantic addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. Bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries, the crunch of pecans, and the tang of feta cheese, it’s a healthy, flavor-packed dish that symbolizes the love and care you put into planning the day. Paired with a homemade raspberry vinaigrette, this salad is as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons red onion, thinly sliced
For the Raspberry Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, feta cheese, pecans, and red onion.
- In a blender, mix the fresh raspberries, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat.
- Pack the salad in a container with a lid for your picnic. Keep it cool with an ice pack.
This salad is a refreshing and visually appealing addition to your Valentine’s Day spread. Its bright colors and sweet-savory taste will impress your partner while reflecting the love and effort you put into creating a memorable meal.
Rosemary-Infused Heart-Shaped Mini Quiches
These Rosemary-Infused Heart-Shaped Mini Quiches are a charming and savory delight perfect for your Valentine’s picnic. Packed with creamy eggs, cheese, and aromatic rosemary, they’re baked to golden perfection in heart-shaped molds. This recipe is both heartfelt and satisfying, making it a great way to showcase your culinary love.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- ½ cup diced ham or sautéed vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a heart-shaped silicone muffin mold.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheese, diced ham or vegetables, and rosemary.
- Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared molds, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the quiches are puffed and set in the middle.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing them from the molds. Pack in a container for your picnic.
These mini quiches bring a warm, homemade touch to your Valentine’s Day meal. Their delightful shape and savory flavor make them an ideal centerpiece for a cozy, love-filled outdoor feast.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Shortcake Jars
End your Valentine’s Day picnic on a sweet note with Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Shortcake Jars. This dessert layers fluffy shortcake, juicy strawberries, whipped cream, and a decadent chocolate drizzle in a portable jar. The rich flavors and elegant presentation are bound to make your loved one swoon.
Ingredients:
- 1 store-bought or homemade shortcake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream
- ½ cup chocolate chips, melted
Instructions:
- In small jars, layer the shortcake cubes, strawberries, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the jars are full, ending with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top layer using a spoon or piping bag.
- Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate until ready to pack. Use an ice pack to keep them cool during your picnic.
This dessert is a showstopper that captures the essence of Valentine’s Day. The combination of strawberries and chocolate is timeless, while the layered jars add a touch of whimsy. Your partner will appreciate the love and thought you put into this indulgent treat.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a simple yet elegant dish that perfectly captures the essence of Italian cuisine. With juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, these skewers are a burst of flavor. Drizzling them with a rich balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. They’re easy to eat, full of flavor, and make for a romantic addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Thread the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers or toothpicks, alternating between each ingredient.
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by half and becomes thick and syrupy (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the skewers on a platter or pack them in a container for your picnic.
These Caprese Skewers are a visually stunning and flavorful addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. Their fresh, vibrant taste is a perfect representation of love’s simplicity and beauty, making them a memorable appetizer or snack to share with someone special.
Sweetheart Veggie Hummus Cups
These Sweetheart Veggie Hummus Cups are a fun and healthy addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. Served in individual portions, these cups feature a creamy hummus base topped with an assortment of fresh, colorful vegetables, including carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers. With a heart-shaped presentation, these cups are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 small clear cups or jars
Instructions:
- Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of hummus into the bottom of each cup or jar, smoothing the top with a spoon.
- Arrange the sliced cucumber, diced bell pepper, and carrot in the cup, layering the vegetables on top of the hummus.
- Garnish with fresh parsley. For an extra touch, use a heart-shaped cutter to shape the cucumber or bell pepper pieces.
- Seal the cups with lids and pack them in your picnic basket.
These Sweetheart Veggie Hummus Cups are a playful and nutritious addition to your picnic. Their heart-shaped presentation adds a lovely touch, making them the perfect bite-sized treat for sharing and enjoying during your romantic picnic.
Rose Water Lemonade
Rose Water Lemonade is a refreshing and subtly floral beverage that will elevate your Valentine’s Day picnic. The combination of tangy lemon and aromatic rose water creates a delightful and romantic drink that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny day. This lemonade not only tastes amazing but also brings an air of elegance to your picnic.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- ½ cup honey or sugar (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and cold water.
- Stir in the honey or sugar until dissolved, adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
- Add the rose water and stir well to incorporate.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color.
Rose Water Lemonade is a beautifully fragrant and refreshing beverage that will set a romantic tone for your Valentine’s picnic. Its unique flavor and elegance make it a standout drink, offering a memorable way to stay hydrated while enjoying the love-filled atmosphere of your picnic.
Avocado and Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
These Avocado and Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a light, refreshing, and deliciously healthy option for your Valentine’s Day picnic. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite. With a drizzle of tangy lime dressing, these wraps are a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will impress your picnic partner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 8 large lettuce leaves (butter or Romaine lettuce works well)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Lime Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Drizzle the lime dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Arrange the lettuce leaves on a platter and spoon the shrimp and avocado mixture into the center of each leaf.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately or pack for your picnic.
These Avocado and Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are a refreshing, light, and elegant dish perfect for your Valentine’s picnic. The combination of creamy avocado, tender shrimp, and crunchy veggies makes for a satisfying bite that’s sure to impress. These wraps are easy to make, nutritious, and bursting with vibrant flavors.
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
No Valentine’s Day picnic would be complete without a decadent dessert, and these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect indulgence. The soft, moist red velvet cake combined with rich cream cheese frosting is an irresistible treat that screams romance. These individual cupcakes are not only beautiful but also delightfully sweet, making them the ultimate Valentine’s Day dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and food coloring. Add the buttermilk and vinegar and mix well.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting and serve, or pack them carefully for your picnic.
These Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are a stunning and indulgent dessert that will add a touch of sweetness and love to your Valentine’s Day picnic. The rich, velvety cake paired with the creamy, tangy frosting makes each bite a treat to remember. Perfect for sharing with someone special!
Mini Chicken and Pesto Sandwiches
Mini Chicken and Pesto Sandwiches are a delightful, savory option that will please everyone at your Valentine’s Day picnic. Tender chicken breast, fresh basil pesto, and mozzarella are sandwiched between soft, crusty bread to create a flavorful bite-sized meal. These sandwiches are perfect for enjoying alongside a glass of wine or as a simple yet satisfying treat for your picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced thinly
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 small soft rolls or baguettes, cut into small sections
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the rolls or baguette into small sandwich-sized pieces. Lightly toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes to give them a bit of crunch.
- While the bread is toasting, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on each side of the toasted bread.
- Layer the chicken, mozzarella, and any leftover pesto on one side of each sandwich, then top with the other piece of bread.
- Slice each sandwich in half or into smaller bite-sized pieces. Pack them for your picnic and serve with a side of chips or salad.
These Mini Chicken and Pesto Sandwiches are simple yet packed with flavor, making them an excellent addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic spread. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh pesto, and melty mozzarella creates a satisfying bite that’s sure to leave you and your loved one feeling full and happy.
Heart-Shaped Brie and Fig Jam Crostini
These Heart-Shaped Brie and Fig Jam Crostini are the epitome of gourmet elegance, offering a perfect balance of creamy cheese and sweet, tangy fig jam. The heart-shaped toast adds a romantic touch, making these crostini a great appetizer for your Valentine’s Day picnic. With the melt-in-your-mouth texture of Brie and the deep flavor of fig jam, these crostini are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small slices
- 4 tablespoons fig jam
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush each baguette slice with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Toast the bread in the oven for about 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Once the bread is toasted, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create heart-shaped crostini from the slices.
- Spread a thin layer of fig jam on each heart-shaped crostini.
- Top with a slice of Brie cheese and return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately or pack for your picnic.
These Heart-Shaped Brie and Fig Jam Crostini are an elegant and romantic appetizer, perfect for a Valentine’s Day picnic. The richness of Brie combined with the sweet fig jam on crispy bread is a crowd-pleaser that will add a touch of sophistication to your picnic spread. Simple yet impressive, these crostini offer a beautiful start to your celebration.
Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad with Honey Vinaigrette
This Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad with Honey Vinaigrette is a light, refreshing, and vibrant addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. Sweet strawberries paired with creamy goat cheese create a dreamy combination of flavors, while the honey vinaigrette adds a delicate sweetness that ties everything together. This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it an excellent choice for a romantic outdoor meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale work well)
- ¼ cup candied pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, mixed greens, and crumbled goat cheese.
- If using, sprinkle the candied pecans or walnuts over the salad for an added crunch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or pack the salad in a container for your picnic, adding the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
This Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad with Honey Vinaigrette is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a great choice for a light yet satisfying addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. Its colorful presentation and delicate flavors will impress and refresh, setting the tone for a romantic and enjoyable picnic experience.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries are a classic Valentine’s Day treat that never goes out of style. Sweet, juicy strawberries coated in rich chocolate are the perfect combination of fruity and indulgent. They’re easy to make, beautiful to look at, and provide a delightful treat for your picnic. Whether you use dark, milk, or white chocolate, these decadent strawberries are guaranteed to bring joy to your picnic.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 8 oz dark or milk chocolate, chopped
- 2 oz white chocolate (optional, for drizzling)
- Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt (optional, for decoration)
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark or milk chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, covering about two-thirds of the berry, and gently tap off any excess chocolate.
- Place the dipped strawberries on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool at room temperature.
- If desired, melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the strawberries for a decorative touch.
- Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor and decoration.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for faster setting.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries are the ultimate romantic treat, perfect for a Valentine’s Day picnic. Their rich flavor and irresistible sweetness make them a must-have for any celebration of love. Whether you dip them in dark, milk, or white chocolate, these strawberries are a simple yet luxurious way to indulge in a little romance during your picnic.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a colorful and elegant addition to any Valentine’s Day picnic. The simple combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves is enhanced by a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. These bite-sized appetizers are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor in every bite, making them a perfect choice for a romantic and light picnic snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 package fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the honey and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Thread the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto toothpicks or small skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
- Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately or pack for your picnic.
These Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are an easy yet sophisticated appetizer for your Valentine’s Day picnic. The refreshing combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, paired with the sweet tanginess of the balsamic glaze, makes each skewer a delightful bite. Perfect for a light and elegant picnic, these skewers will surely wow your picnic partner.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Pastry Bites
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Pastry Bites are the perfect savory snack for a Valentine’s Day picnic. The crispy, buttery layers of phyllo dough envelop a creamy filling of spinach and feta cheese, creating an irresistible bite-sized treat. These pastries are not only flavorful but also easy to make ahead, making them a stress-free addition to your romantic picnic.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 12 sheets), thawed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta cheese, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface, brush lightly with melted butter, and place another sheet on top. Repeat this process until you have 4 sheets layered.
- Cut the layered phyllo dough into squares (about 4 inches per square) and place a teaspoon of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each square.
- Fold the corners of each square over the filling to form a pocket or triangle, and brush the top with more melted butter.
- Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving, or pack them for your picnic.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Pastry Bites are a savory, flaky treat that adds a gourmet touch to your Valentine’s Day picnic. The crisp layers of phyllo dough combined with the rich and creamy spinach and feta filling make each bite irresistible. These hand-held pastries are perfect for sharing, offering a comforting and elegant snack for your romantic outdoor meal.
Pomegranate and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts
This Pomegranate and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is a vibrant and flavorful addition to your Valentine’s Day picnic. The tangy arugula is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts. Topped with a simple vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richer picnic dishes, making it an ideal side dish to balance out the flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 pomegranate, seeds removed
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the arugula with the pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing emulsifies.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or pack for your picnic.
This Pomegranate and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is a refreshing, sweet, and savory dish that brings vibrant flavors to your Valentine’s Day picnic. The combination of peppery arugula, tart pomegranate, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. It’s a light yet satisfying salad that will add a fresh, flavorful touch to your picnic spread.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!