There is something so powerful about women gathering around a table.

Not for perfection.

Not for performance.

But for laughter, stories, hugs, and the kind of connection that fills your cup.

This year, I’m sharing an Easy Sweet & Savory Galentine’s Menu that feels festive, elevated, and completely doable. Because the goal isn’t to stress in the kitchen — it’s to enjoy the moment with your besties.

Let’s build a spread that’s beautiful, delicious, and interactive.

The Sweet & Savory Galentine’s Menu

Caprese with Prosciutto and Heart-shaped mozzarella cheese

Cherry heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella slices work better here (cut into hearts if you’d like), basil leaves, silky prosciutto, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil with flaky sea salt.

It’s fresh. It looks stunning on a platter — and takes minutes to assemble.

Chicken Pesto & Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

This one is hearty enough to anchor the table.

Tender pasta tossed with jarred pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, juicy chicken, and a drizzle of olive oil (white truffle EVOO if you want to elevate it). Finish with torn basil and heart-shaped mozzarella on top.

It’s cozy, flavorful, and perfect at room temperature — which means less stress for you.

Chicken Pesto & Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

With Heart-Shaped Mozzarella

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 12 oz pasta (fusilli, farfalle, or penne)

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

• ½ cup jarred pesto

• ½ cup jarred sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2–3 tbsp infused white truffle EVOO (or regular extra virgin olive oil)

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into hearts with small cookie cutter

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• Salt & cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and cool completely. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olive oil. Toss until evenly coated. Season with salt and cracked black pepper. Gently fold in basil. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with heart-shaped mozzarella. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil and extra basil for garnish.

Tip: For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving.

“Love U Berry Much” Fruit Salad

A gorgeous mix of raspberries, strawberries, red grapes, and cherries tossed in a citrus-spiced vinaigrette made with:

Fresh orange juice Chilean blood orange EVOO Honey Cinnamon Cardamom Ginger A pinch of salt

It’s bright, slightly warm from the spices, and balances the sweetness beautifully.

“Love U Berry Much” Fruit Salad

With Citrus-Spiced Honey Vinaigrette

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Fruit:

• 1 cup raspberries

• 1½ cups strawberries, sliced

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted

Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice

• 2 tbsp Chilean blood orange EVOO

• 1–2 tbsp honey

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch cardamom

• Pinch ginger powder

• Tiny pinch sea salt

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, blood orange EVOO, honey, spices, and salt until emulsified. In a large bowl, gently combine all fruit. Drizzle vinaigrette lightly over fruit (start with half and add as needed). Toss gently and chill 20–30 minutes before serving.

Tip: Garnish with fresh mint or extra orange zest for brightness.

The DIY Moment: Mini Cake Decorating with Your Besties

Now let’s talk about the FUN.

Pick up plain mini cakes from your local grocery store. Set up a decorating station with:

Frosting in different colors Sprinkles Edible glitter Painters’ palettes (as your decorating boards) Clean painters’ palette knives for spreading

Suddenly, dessert becomes an experience.

There is something healing and joyful about women creating together — laughing at imperfect swirls, cheering each other on, adding “just a little more glitter.”

It’s playful. It’s nostalgic. It’s connection over perfection.

A Little Extra Sweetness

Because no Galentine’s table is complete without chocolate.

Add:

Chocolate chocolate chip cookies topped with edible bows Individual takeaway bags of Teddy Grahams with tiny “I love you” heart tags attached

It’s simple. It’s adorable. And it sends your guests home feeling celebrated.

Why Gathering with Your Besties Matters

We are not meant to do life alone.

In a world that pulls us in a thousand directions — careers, family, responsibilities — intentional gathering becomes sacred.

When women gather:

We regulate each other’s nervous systems. We laugh deeply. We share honestly. We remind each other who we are.

A Galentine’s celebration isn’t just about pink and hearts.

It’s about being seen.

It’s about celebrating friendship.

It’s about creating space to breathe and belong.

And the beautiful thing? It doesn’t have to be complicated.

A few thoughtful dishes.

A DIY dessert moment.

A table set with intention.

And women who are willing to show up for one another.

That’s the magic.

Live well.

Live beautifully.

Live connected. 💕