53 Best Galentine’s Day Food Ideas and Recipes

Valentine’s Day has always been a celebration of love between couples — but Galentine’s Day is just as important. This fun “holiday,” which is celebrated on February 13, is focused on celebrating another important kind of love — the love you have for your best friends. It’s the perfect time to get all glammed up, have some decadent snacks and drinks and show your best friends how much you care. 

If this is your first year celebrating, you may find yourself wondering, “What food is eaten on Galentine’s Day?” Whether you’re planning a small, intimate meal with your bestie or a larger party, the following Galentine’s Day food ideas will help you make sure it’s memorable.

Table of contents:

• Galentine’s Day brunch ideas

• Galentine’s Day appetizers and sides

• Galentine’s Day entrees

• Galentine’s Day desserts

• Galentine’s Day drinks

1. Strawberry cheesecake French toast

French toast is a great choice if brunch is among your Galentine’s Day ideas, and this strawberry cheesecake twist makes a delightfully decadent addition to your next gathering. Enjoy it as is, or elevate your Galentine’s Day food even further with cinnamon, pecans, maple syrup or a spoonful of cherries. 

2. Mini frittatas

Individual frittata muffins are perfect for a Galentine’s Day brunch. Customize them with your favorite fillings like veggies, cheese and meat. If you’re cooking for a larger group, use our recipe converter to multiply the recipe.

3. Yogurt fruit dip

For a sweet and low-calorie Galentine’s Day brunch dish, make fresh fruit cups and serve them with a creamy yogurt dip. You can even add a bit of sweet liquor to give it a fun and fancy kick.

4. Mini quiches

These savory mini quiches are bite-sized brunch favorites that fit right in with the best Galentine’s Day brunch food ideas. Fill them with a mix of cheese, veggies and herbs, then arrange them on a cake stand or tiered platter with fresh flowers and pink napkins to dress things up. They pair well with fruit salad, sparkling juices or coffee drinks as you catch up with friends.

5. White chocolate pancakes with raspberry sauce

These white chocolate pancakes with raspberry sauce make a sweet centerpiece for Galentine’s brunch. The fluffy pancakes with creamy white chocolate and bright berry topping feel indulgent yet playful, especially with a dusting of powdered sugar. Set up a toppings bar with whipped cream, extra berries and chocolate shavings so everyone can customize their own flapjack stack.

6. Coffee cake

A tender crumb coffee cake with a buttery streusel topping is the perfect choice for a cozy February gathering. Slice into generous squares and serve warm alongside lattes, tea or mimosas while everyone chats around the table.

7. Mixed berry muffins

Bring a bright burst of color to your brunch table with these baked bites. Bake them in decorative liners, then pile them high in a basket lined with a pink or red tea towel for a festive display. They pair beautifully with yogurt, fresh fruit and coffee, plus they’re easy to nibble on while you play games or exchange cards.

8. Cranberry orange scones

These cranberry orange scones feel like something you’d enjoy at a trendy café with friends, making them a natural fit for Galentine’s Day. The tart cranberries and citrusy glaze add just enough flair, especially when served on a tiered stand with fresh orange slices and a small bowl of jam or cream.

9. Berry yogurt parfaits

Layered with berries, creamy vanilla yogurt and crunchy granola, these parfaits are a lighter option that still looks celebratory. Serve them in clear glasses or stemless wine glasses so the pink and red layers show. Top each one with a berry and a sprig of mint for a simple garnish.

10. Breakfast sausage and egg stuffed peppers

Need a hearty yet low-carb option? Arrange colorful pepper halves on a serving tray, then sprinkle with fresh herbs or cheese for a pop of color. These stuffed peppers pair nicely with fruit, salad or simple pastries, plus they’re easy to serve buffet-style so your Galentine’s guests can help themselves.

11. Brie bites with cranberry sauce

This addictive one-bite appetizer features fresh strawberries, brie cheese, basil and balsamic vinegar. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, creamy and savory. 

12. Olive and tomato crostini

These olive and tomato crostinis are an elegant appetizer that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of flavors is truly unforgettable. Be sure to make plenty because they’ll disappear fast!

13. Asparagus with lemon vinaigrette

Not sure what to serve with your Galentine’s Day entrees? Steamed asparagus with an easy and delicious hollandaise sauce is the perfect side for baked ham, seafood or other classic brunch items. Try this asparagus with a lemon vinaigrette for a tasty dish.

14. Bacon-wrapped shrimp 

Your friends are sure to love this recipe that features shrimp wrapped in bacon. Serve it over a lemony bed of arugula for a delicious and super-easy-to-make meal. 

15. Roasted eggplant dip

Add a kick to your Galentine’s Day food ideas with this spicy roasted eggplant dip. Serve it with a side of toasted pita crisps or cut veggies. 

16. Spanakopita

This classic Greek food features a delicious spinach filling inside layers of light, flaky phyllo dough. Follow this easy spanakopita recipe to impress your friends. 

17. Potstickers

Potstickers are the perfect appetizer! They combine pork and finely chopped vegetables inside a wonton wrapper. Serve them with a side of Asian dipping sauce. 

18. Deviled eggs

Deviled eggs are always a hit at parties, and Galentine’s Day is no different. Kick things up a notch with cayenne pepper alternatives like hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

19. Seared scallops with lemon garlic sauce

These seared scallops with lemon garlic sauce are a decadent appetizer that will make your girlfriends feel special. If you like a bit of spice, you can give them a kick by adding some Cajun seasoning.

20. Shrimp pasta salad with vinaigrette

This shrimp pasta salad with vinaigrette is bright and refreshing, ideal for Galentine’s appetizers where you need something light to balance richer dishes and baked goods. Display it in a clear serving bowl so the colors pop on your tablescape.

21. Charcuterie board with honey and jam

For a classy and totally customizable appetizer, make a charcuterie board. This option is perfect if you’re looking for Galentine's Day food board ideas that also double as decor. Layer sliced meats, cheeses, fruit, crackers and little bowls of honey and jam on a wooden board, then tuck in a few sprigs of fresh herbs or edible flowers to match your pink-and-red theme.

22. Fruit pizza

Fresh fruit pizza with a cream cheese base brings a colorful, dessert-like element to your appetizer lineup. Use berries and sliced fruit in shades of red, pink and orange to create heart shapes or swirls that match the Galentine’s theme.

23. Queso fundido

Queso fundido is melty, shareable and right at home on any Galentines party food ideas spread. Serve it in a cast-iron skillet with tortilla chips or warm tortillas, and garnish with cilantro and diced tomatoes.

24. Pepperoni pizza roll-ups

Pepperoni pizza roll-ups are fun, nostalgic bites that feel right at home for a relaxed Galentine’s night in. Plate them with a small bowl of marinara in the center and add a sprinkle of grated cheese. They work well alongside a salad bar, veggie trays or other finger foods as your friends play games or watch a favorite rom-com.

25. Rosemary garlic focaccia

This gluten-free recipe is flavorful and special, pairing nicely with salads, antipasto or a glass of wine during a cozy Galentine’s dinner. Cut it into small squares and serve it warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, then tuck a few sprigs of rosemary around the platter as a natural garnish. 

26. Creamy cold crab dip

Creamy cold crab dip is one of those tasty, low-stress Galentine’s Day recipe ideas that requires minimal effort. Present it in a pretty bowl or ramekin surrounded by crackers, crostini and sliced veggies. Keep it chilled on a side table so guests can circle back for seconds as the evening goes on. It pairs well with crisp white wine.

27. Pomegranate-glazed chicken salad 

Pomegranate-glazed chicken salad is a fresh, colorful option that adds a bit of brightness to your table. Serve over mixed greens or in endive leaves for individual bites. The sweet-tart flavor works well with sparkling drinks and richer apps, balancing out cheese boards and dips.

28. Honey-baked ham

It takes a bit of time to cook a juicy ham, but your girlfriends are definitely worth the effort! With this honey-baked ham recipe, you can be sure it will come out perfect. Use our ham cooking time calculator to estimate how long it will take per pound.

29. Cheese tortellini

Want a sit-down meal? Cheese tortellini in creamy tomato sauce is comfort food that shines on our list of Galentine’s food menu ideas. Serve it family-style in a big dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and grated cheese. Add candles, a simple side salad and warm bread so your friends can enjoy a cozy, Italian-inspired evening.

30. Prosciutto pizza

Bring a slightly upscale twist to your next pizza night with the gals. Bake until the crust is crisp and the prosciutto is just warmed, then finish with arugula or shaved cheese for bistro-style flair. Slice it into small squares for sharing and pair with a simple salad and bubbly drinks.

31. Squash and zucchini ratatouille

Squash and zucchini ratatouille is a colorful, veggie-forward entrée that looks beautiful in the center of any table. Arrange the sliced vegetables in a spiral or layered pattern in a baking dish. Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving. Pair it with crusty bread, salad or a grain like couscous for a light yet satisfying Galentine’s main course.

32. Baklava

This amazing pastry dessert is made from phyllo dough and a sweet, nut-based filling. Follow this traditional baklava recipe for a delicious dessert.

33. White chocolate raspberry cheesecake

Cheesecake is always popular, and this recipe will give you wow-worthy, restaurant-quality taste and texture. It includes cookie crumbs, white chocolate chips and fresh raspberries.

34. Strawberry lemon ricotta cake

 This unique recipe contains fresh strawberries and ricotta cheese with a bit of lemon and honey. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that the girls are sure to love. 

35. Peanut butter and pretzel truffles

Chocolate, peanut butter and pretzel balls are sure to be a huge hit at your Galentine’s Day party. With only three ingredients, they’re also super easy to make. Follow along with this easy recipe for a salty and sweet treat.

36. Bacon brownies

There’s nothing quite like the sweet and savory flavor combination of bacon and chocolate! Add these bacon brownies to your Galentine’s Day dessert table, and you’re sure to get plenty of compliments. 

37. Chocolate-covered strawberries

 Chocolate-covered strawberries are an elegant dessert option that will instantly elevate any event. They’re easy to make at home, and it’s less expensive than buying them in the store.

38. Red velvet cupcakes

Thanks to their bold color and tangy-sweet frosting, these red velvet cupcakes might be the star of your Galentine’s Day party food ideas. Decorate them with pink sprinkles or edible glitter, then display them on a cake stand as a charming dessert centerpiece.

39. Chocolate fondue

Chocolate fondue is one of the most interactive and easy Galentine's Day food ideas. Surround the fondue pot with plenty of strawberries, marshmallows, pretzels and pound cake cubes, then let everyone dip, decorate and share.

40. Dark chocolate truffles

Dark chocolate truffles feel luxurious yet can be made ahead of time, perfect when you’re hosting a group of friends. Roll them in cocoa powder, crushed freeze-dried raspberries or pink sprinkles and present them in a small box or on a pretty plate. They’re rich enough that one or two per person is plenty, especially alongside coffee, espresso or a dessert wine.

41. Silken tofu chocolate mousse

This smooth, rich dessert is a good option when you’re hosting guests with different dietary needs. Pipe it into small glasses and top with whipped topping, shaved chocolate or raspberries. It pairs nicely with fruit platters and looks especially pretty on a dessert table with candles and flowers.

42. Chocolate hazelnut strawberry French toast roll-ups

Mini chocolate hazelnut and strawberry French toast roll-ups combine brunch and dessert in one fun bite. Arrange them in rows on a platter, dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries around the edges for a Galentine’s-ready presentation. They’re great with any beverage, whether you’re thirsty for coffee drinks, hot chocolate or sparkling cocktails.

43. Cherry ice cream

Homemade cherry ice cream brings a charming pink hue to your dessert table. Serve it in glass bowls or waffle cones and top with chocolate chips, whipped cream or extra cherries. You can even build a small ice cream bar with sprinkles and sauces so your friends can customize their own treats. (For a vegan alternative, try some banana berry “nice” cream!)

44. Cream cheese brownies

These swirled cream cheese brownies have a firm, fudgy texture that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can use strawberry cream cheese to add a festive hint of pink. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled brownies.

45. Mini cheesecake cups

Mini cheesecakes are an overload of cuteness. Every bite-sized cup delivers flavors of buttery graham cracker crust and creamy filling. For a lighter version, sub low-fat cream cheese and use a sugar substitute. Top with berry compote, and these bites are sure to impress every one of your Galentine’s guests. 

46. White wine sangria

Since Galentine’s Day falls in the winter months, this wintertime twist on sangria is a perfect drink to serve at your celebration. It features white wine, brandy and a mix of tasty fruit. 

47. Champagne punch

This Champagne punch cocktail is the perfect blend of a mimosa and a mojito. It only has a few ingredients, so it’s also super easy to make! 

48. Red wine punch

Red wine punch is a delicious cocktail that features cinnamon, cloves and red wine. Serve it warm and garnish it with a skewer of fresh cranberries for a cozy wintertime beverage.

49. Mexican hot chocolate

One of the best parts of Galentine’s Day is the chocolate, so why not highlight this seasonal favorite in a decadent beverage that’s meant to be shared? This Mexican hot chocolate recipe is easy to follow and is sure to elevate your Galentine’s Day party.

50. Fruity red wine sangria

Fruity red wine sangria is a great batch cocktail that you can mix in a large pitcher before guests arrive. Add sliced citrus and maybe a few heart-shaped strawberry pieces for a playful Galentine’s Day touch. Serve in stemless wine glasses or mason jars and set the pitcher in the center of your drink station for easy refills.

51. Peach bellini

Peach bellinis are a natural fit for a brunch-style Galentine’s gathering, pairing well with pastries, fruit and savory bites. They bring a light, bubbly feel to your celebration and look lovely in Champagne flutes. The golden peach color pairs beautifully with pink and red decor, and they’ll be extra picture-perfect if you garnish each glass with a thin peach slice or raspberry. 

52. French 75

A French 75 feels classic and a bit glamorous, making it a great cocktail choice for an upscale Galentine’s night. Serve it in coupe or flute glasses with a lemon twist for a simple but polished garnish. The bright, bubbly drink pairs well with everything, from salty snacks and cheese boards to light desserts.

53. Sparkling raspberry limeade

If you’re looking for a refreshing mocktail option for Galentine’s Day, this sparkling raspberry limeade is the perfect choice — and cute, to boot! Serve it in clear glasses so the pink color shines, then garnish with lime slices and fresh raspberries to round out your list of Galentine’s lunch ideas.

Plan a Galentine’s Day to remember

With these delicious Galentine’s Day food ideas, you can be sure your celebration will be super special. Give yourself more time to prepare by ordering groceries through Instacart. Let a professional shopper pick up everything you need and drop it off at your door. It’s easy and affordable, so try it out today!