Celebrate Valentine's Weekend Mediterranean Style

A couple shares a tender moment by a tranquil lakeside on Valentine's Day.

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, but why not add a touch of Mediterranean flair to this weekend to make it even more special? The Mediterranean region is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, passionate culture, and, of course, delicious food. Here’s how you can celebrate the most romantic day of the year, Mediterranean style.

Valentine's day fell on a Friday this year......so why not celebrate all weekend long!

Two hands forming a heart shape against a vibrant, blurred background, symbolizing love and connection.

1. Start with a Mediterranean Inspired Breakfast or Brunch

The Mediterranean diet is known for its healthy food and delicious flavours, often including olive oil, cheeses, fresh bread and fruits. Start your morning with a Mediterranean breakfast to set the tone for a indulgent and relaxing day.

• Greek Yogurt with Fresh Fruits and Honey: Start with a base of thick, creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and topped with fresh berries, figs, or pomegranate seeds. These fruits represent passion and love in Mediterranean cultures.

  
  

• Bread and Dip: Pair your breakfast with some warm crusty Mediterranean bread, a drizzle of high quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and herbs. I personally adore using zaatar and Maldon sea salt. This flavourful and simple combination will remind you of the region’s healthy and hearty cuisine. A British favourite combination is balsamic vinegar and olive oil. If you enjoy this, go for it but maybe try adding some good quality dried oregano and a pinch a flaky salt for extra added oomph.

  
  

• Milky Coffee and a pastry: As its a special occasion, why not have your monthly treat. Why not do what Italian's do, and enjoy a milky coffee and a freshly made pastry. However, this must happen before 11am. After 11am they switch to caffé or macchiato, and they never have coffee with lunch. Examples of pastries that they enjoy before 11am are cornetti, sfogliatelle, maritozzi, or biscotti.

  
  
  
  
  
  

  

  Enjoying a peaceful morning in bed with coffee and a croissant.

  
  
  
  

2. A Romantic Mediterranean Inspired Dinner

The Mediterranean dinner table is a celebration of togetherness and abundance, often centred around vibrant, fresh ingredients and shared platters. Whether you are in the mood for seafood, grilled meats, or a vegetarian feast, there are countless ways to create a beautiful, romantic Mediterranean meal.

• Mezze Platter: Inspired by Turkish, Greek or Lebanese cuisine, a mezze platter includes small, flavourful dishes to share. Think hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki, stuffed grape leaves (dolmas), olives, roasted vegetables, and warm pita bread. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a variety of tastes and textures while sharing a meal with your loved one

  
  

• Fresh Seafood: Mediterranean countries are known for their abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled prawns, fish, or squid with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs is a flavourful and light choice. Serve with a side of couscous, or a simple salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a meal full of fresh, vibrant flavours.

  
  

• Risotto: A creamy, rich risotto with saffron, a Mediterranean delicacy, makes for a cosy and indulgent dish. It’s a perfect option for a romantic dinner that’s both comforting and elegant.

  
  

• Wine Pairing: Pair your meal with Mediterranean wine, such as an Italian Chianti, a Spanish Rioja, or a Greek Assyrtiko. These wines complement the flavours of Mediterranean cuisine beautifully and help to set a relaxed, celebratory mood.

  
  

  

  A delicious bowl of homemade linguine alle vongole, garnished with fresh parsley, showcases perfectly cooked clams and al dente pasta. A glass of white wine is ready to complement this classic Italian seafood dish.

  
  

3. Celebrate with Mediterranean Desserts

What would a Valentine’s weekend celebration be without something sweet? The Mediterranean has its own delicious array of desserts that range from light and fruity to rich and indulgent.

• Baklava: A beloved treat across the Mediterranean, baklava is made with layers of filo pastry, honey, and crushed pistachios. It’s sweet, sticky, and perfect for sharing.

  
  

• Chocolate Dipped Figs or Dates: Figs and dates are common in Mediterranean desserts and represent fertility and sweetness. Dipping them in rich dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch that is both decadent and romantic.

  
  

• Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert of coffee soaked cake layered with mascarpone cheese and cocoa powder is perfect for the couple who loves a bit of indulgence and coffee. It’s simple yet sophisticated.

  
  

  

  A delicious platter of pistachio baklava paired with traditional Turkish tea, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth.

4. A Romantic Mediterranean Indoor Picnic

A Mediterranean style indoor picnic is a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine’s weekend, while keeping warm inside. Set out a blanket and cushions and fill a basket with all your favourite Mediterranean foods and wines.

• Charcuterie or Cheese Board: Choose a selection of cheeses, such as creamy brie, tangy feta, or juicy buffalo mozzarella, along with olives, nuts, and meats like prosciutto or chicken.

  
  

• Fruit & Wine: Bring along a bottle of wine, some fresh fruit (grapes, pomegranates, figs), and perhaps some artisan wholegrain bread or crackers to accompany the cheeses.

  
  

• Games: the beauty of being indoors is that you can entertain each other easily by some indoor fun & games such as kinky dice or follow the petals to the bedroom.

  
  

• Relax and Savour: Mediterranean life is all about savouring the moment, so take your time, relax, and enjoy good company and delicious food.

A rustic Italian appetizer featuring prosciutto-wrapped breadsticks, a bowl of green olives, and chunks of aged cheese, elegantly presented on a wooden board.

5. Incorporate Mediterranean Music

Set the mood with some Mediterranean inspired music. You can create a playlist with romantic Mediterranean ballads, flamenco guitar, or Italian love songs. This music will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean and create a relaxed, intimate ambiance for your celebration.

A couple enjoy a serene evening on the beach, playing music beside a campfire as the sun sets over the ocean.

6. Mediterranean Inspired Romance

The Mediterranean is filled with romantic traditions and customs, making it the perfect place to draw inspiration for your celebration.

• Love Letters or Poems: Mediterranean cultures have a rich history of poetry, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to write your beloved a heartfelt letter or poem. If you're feeling inspired, try writing your own love letter in the style of famous Mediterranean poets like Pablo Neruda (Chile) or the romantic verses of the ancient Greek poets.

  
  

• Gifts with Meaning: Consider a gift with Mediterranean significance, such as a handcrafted piece of jewellery from Greece or Italy, a beautiful bottle of olive oil, or a collection of artisanal spices.

A close up of a fountain pen writing a love letter or poem.

7. Mediterranean Beachside or Countryside Escape

For the ultimate Valentine’s Weekend celebration, plan a getaway to a Mediterranean destination. Whether it's a beachside retreat or a charming countryside villa. The Mediterranean landscape, with its rolling hills, crystal clear waters, and romantic sunsets, is an ideal setting for a romantic escape. Imagine watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a glass of wine with your loved one.

Two people relaxing on a sandy beach, their legs stretched out into the gentle waves of the ocean.

Final Thoughts

Valentine’s Weekend Mediterranean style is about celebrating love in a way that feels timeless, sensual, and meaningful. Whether you're cooking up a Mediterranean feast at home, enjoying a romantic indoor picnic, or escaping to a sun soaked destination, these traditions will bring you closer to the Mediterranean’s warm, welcoming spirit. So, take a deep breath, let the flavours, music, and warmth of the Mediterranean set the scene, and enjoy the day with your loved one, Mediterranean-style!