Make Valentine’s week easy with a family date night at home: a hands-on menu that invites everyone to help, from a winter chopped salad to a sheet-pan roast chicken and a playful PB&J tiramisu. For the salad, start with a simple house dressing like this all-purpose vinaigrette so younger helpers can shake it up in a jar.
Set the Tone
Begin by parking distractions: gather phones and tablets in a bowl and keep them out of sight until dessert. With screens off, conversation—and teamwork—comes naturally as each person takes a small job.
Course 1: Winter Chopped Salad
Use sturdy seasonal greens (such as kale or radicchio) and plenty of crunch. Let kids shake the dressing and crush pita chips for texture. A citrusy note from the vinaigrette brightens the greens and balances richer courses to come.
- Prep: Chop hearty greens and mild onions; keep ingredients in separate bowls.
- Dress: Toss just before serving so the leaves stay crisp.
- Upgrade: Add a spoonful of grated Parm or toasted nuts for extra bite.
For more bright, veggie-forward ideas, a simple side like Caesar roasted broccoli pairs well with the main course.
Course 2: Sheet-Pan Roast Chicken with Leeks & Potatoes
Roast a whole chicken on a single pan for minimal cleanup. As it cooks, leeks turn silky and sweet while potatoes crisp at the edges—an easy centerpiece that still feels special on a weeknight.
- Pan Setup: Scatter potato cubes and sliced leeks; drizzle with oil and season well.
- Roast: Set the chicken over the vegetables so juices baste everything underneath.
- Finish: Rest before carving to keep the meat juicy; serve everyone their preferred piece.
If you love lemony profiles, try a citrus-forward spin another night with Amalfi lemon chicken—a bright companion to winter sides.
Course 3: PB&J Tiramisu
Classic technique meets kid-friendly flavors: dip ladyfingers quickly in espresso, layer with a lightly sweet mascarpone-peanut butter cream, and swirl in jam. Let the little ones garnish by grating chocolate over the top before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble earlier in the day; chill so layers set cleanly.
- Swap: Use decaf espresso for younger palates, or milk for a no-coffee version.
Craving a chocolate-forward alternative? Consider the cocoa-espresso vibe of espresso peanut butter “better” brownies for a different take on the PB&J theme.
To Sip
Offer a bright, adult-friendly cocktail like the ginger kombucha gin refresher alongside a non-alcoholic green juice such as the green refresher so everyone has something festive in hand.
Make It a Ritual
Once the table is cleared, return the phones—if anyone remembers them. A relaxed, collaborative dinner like this is easy to repeat, and it turns a busy weekday into a memory without the hassle of reservations or babysitters.
