Valentine’s Day is all about love, and that includes showing love to your body! While the first thing that comes to mind is sugary treats, chocolate candy, and decadent meals, there are plenty of delicious and healthy Valentine’s Day swaps for your favorite classic treats so you can avoid the sugar crash and ultra processed ingredients.
Whether you’re craving rich chocolate, a fizzy beverage, or a decadent treat, making these simple healthier choices will allow you to enjoy the indulgent flavors while nourishing your body and mind. From festive sweet and salty snacks, to better-for-you desserts, these recipes will help you feel your best this Valentine’s Day.
Healthy Snacks
Chocolate & berry Greek yogurt
Romanticize snack time with a filling bowl of probiotic-rich Greek yogurt topped with fresh or frozen berries (or freeze-dried for a little crunch) and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet-tooth. Drizzle a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter for a dose of healthy fats.
Homemade chocolatey trail mix
Trail mix is the perfect filling snack when you’re on the go and is packed with healthy fats from nuts, fiber and essential vitamins from fruit, and fun flavorful mix-ins like chocolate or dried coconut. Use freeze-dried fruit for a healthy crunch. Here are some simple ideas to add variety and flavor to a protein-packed pick-me-up snack.
Pink hummus
What gives this creamy hummus it’s pink hue? Beets! This nutrient-dense superfood is high in nitrates, which can help lower blood pressure, and supports cognitive health. It also provides dietary fiber, which can support a healthy gut microbiome. Try this pink beet hummus paired with cut up veggies like jicama, cucumbers, and carrots for dipping.
Pomegranate guacamole
Add a ruby red garnish to a classic savory guacamole by sprinkling pomegranate seeds over top. This sweet little crunch adds a nutritious punch. It’s packed with antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and protect against chronic disease. This recipe is perfect paired with organic tortilla chips and raw vegetables like sliced radishes and bell peppers.
Healthy Valentine’s Day Desserts
Dark Chocolate
Ditch sugar-heavy milk chocolate and swap in a decadent and rich dark chocolate instead. Not only is dark chocolate a delicious treat, it also provides antioxidants, which can help fight oxidative stress, and stimulates the production of serotonin, which can boost your mood. Look for 70% cacao or greater to reap the most health benefits.
Homemade peanut butter cups
Skip the store-bought candy and make these indulgent dark chocolate peanut butter cups instead. They’ve got all of the rich salty and sweet flavors of chocolate and peanut butter without the refined sugars and ultra processed ingredients. This recipe is simple and decadent, perfect for Valentines Day.
Chocolate covered strawberries
Make this simple classic dessert recipe by taking fresh juicy strawberries dipped in melted dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. these treats will give you a double punch of nutrients – antioxidants from dark chocolate and vitamin c from the strawberries.
Chocolate peanut butter dates
Dates are high in fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants, and they have a naturally sweet caramel flavor. Start with fresh medjool dates and split them in half (remove the pit) and fill with peanut or almond butter, then drizzle with melted dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. Let them set in the refrigerator and then enjoy for a sweet and salty treat.
Valentine’s Day Mocktails
Pomegranate spritzer
This vibrant and refreshing non-alcoholic drink is the perfect mix of sweet and tart flavors with a bubbly finish. Made with antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice, a splash of OJ, and sparkling water. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a little extra flavor.
Muddled blackberry mocktail
A bold and refreshing non-alcoholic drink made with muddled blackberry, mint leaves, honey, and sparkling water for a fizzy finish. Fresh blackberries are filled with anthocyanins, which help fight inflammation and protect against chronic disease like heart disease and cancer. Enjoy this simple refreshing mocktail full of flavor and health benefits.
Kombucha
This probiotic-rich fizzy drink is the perfect substitute for a bubbly cocktail. Serve in a wine glass to get the full experience and enjoy the benefits of this fermented mocktail. The probiotics in kombucha support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help support your immune system, healthy digestion, and even help boost your mood.
A few simple healthier swaps will make this Valentine’s Day nourishing and full of flavor. Enjoy these chocolatey treats and fizzy mocktails without the guilt.