Strawberry salsa, plus chocolate chips

Valentine's Day looks different for us these days. We're single. We're divorced. And our kids are all grown now. So this day isn't about flowers or big plans anymore. It's quieter.

But that doesn't mean it's empty.

Over the years, we've learned that love doesn't disappear just because life changes. It shows up differently. In the people you choose to spend time with, the small moments. In the way you take care of yourself.

Sometimes that looks like making a simple snack and sharing it with the people you love. My kids. Friends. Family. Or just enjoying it at home, no occasion needed.

We kept seeing this recipe everywhere. It's one of those snacks that went viral on TikTok, and for a reason. Simple, chocolatey, and easy to put together.

So we tried it.

And it turned out to be one of those little treats that just makes the moment feel nicer. No baking. No pressure. Just something sweet to share or enjoy at home.

Because Valentine's Day, for us, isn't about romance anymore.It's about celebrating love in the ways that actually matter now.

And honestly, that's more than enough.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it keeps the contrast simple.

Cold, snappy dark chocolate against fresh, juicy strawberries. One is rich, the other light. Neither overpowers the other.

Using 70% dark chocolate keeps the sweetness in check, while the coconut oil helps the chocolate set smoothly and break cleanly once frozen.

The strawberry salsa balances everything out. A little honey, a touch of sugar, and the natural acidity of the strawberries keep it fresh instead of heavy.

It's a snack that feels intentional without trying too hard. Easy to make, easy to share, and good for moments that are more about being together than making a big deal out of dessert.

Key Ingredients

This recipe only works because each ingredient plays a specific role. There's nothing extra here.

• Dark Chocolate (70%). Dark chocolate is what gives this snack structure and balance. It sets firm once frozen and snaps cleanly when broken, which is exactly what you want for chocolate chips. Milk chocolate stays too soft and becomes overly sweet next to the strawberries. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate keeps everything in check.

• Coconut Oil. A small amount of coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set evenly. It's what gives the chocolate that clean break once frozen. Using butter or cream would soften the chocolate too much. Coconut oil keeps the texture right without changing the flavor.
• Fresh Strawberries. This recipe only works because each ingredient plays a specific role. There's nothing extra here.

Note: please see recipe card at the bottom for a list of full ingredients and measurements

On the stove

1. Place the dark chocolate melting wafers and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl.

1. Melt gently until completely smooth, stirring until fully combined.

1. Pour the melted chocolate onto a lined tray and spread into an even layer.

1. Place in the freezer for 2 hoursor until fully set.

1. Once firm, break the chocolate into irregular chips.

1. Chop the strawberries into tiny pieces. You can use a knife or a vegetable chopper to make the process faster. Place the finely chopped strawberries in a bowl.

1. Add the honey and sugar.

1. Mix well until the strawberries release some of their juices. Adjust sweetness to taste

If you enjoyed this one, there are a few other simple sweet recipes we make just as often.

Things that don't feel heavy, don't take forever, and still feel like a treat.

You might like:

• Lemon Bars when you're craving something fresh and citrusy
• Banana Oat Muffins for an easy, everyday bake

Same idea. Simple ingredients, easy prep, and desserts that fit into real life.

Cook notes

No. This is a no bake recipe. The chocolate sets in the freezer, and the strawberry salsa is made fresh.

You can, but dark chocolate works better here. It sets firmer, isn't overly sweet, and balances the strawberries better than milk chocolate.

Yes, but it's best made close to serving. If you prep it ahead, store it in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving.

What you need

• ½ cup 70% dark chocolate melting wafers
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 1 cup strawberries finely chopped
• 2 tbsp honey to taste
• 2 tsp sugar to taste

Method

1. Place the chocolate melting wafers and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl.
2. Melt gently until smooth, stirring until fully combined.
3. Pour onto a lined tray and spread into an even layer.
4. Freeze for 2 hours, or until fully set.
5. Break into irregular chocolate chips.
6. Place the chopped strawberries in a bowl.
7. Add honey and sugar.
8. Mix well and adjust sweetness to taste.
9. Serve alongside the chocolate chips.