Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to spend an evening out with a special someone, but sometimes it’s difficult to get away. Here are some suggestions for a night in that’s just as special.
Cook Something Impressive, but Easy
A roasted chicken is an easy dish to cook, but it’s very pleasing to the eyes and mouth. Asparagus, a reputed aphrodisiac, is a simple complement to a special meal.
Roast Chicken
- 1 whole chicken, preferably 3-4 pounds
- ½ stick of butter, softened
- salt and pepper, to taste
- diced carrots, potatoes, broccoli, to taste
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Place chicken in roasting pan and rub softened butter on all sides. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken breast side up for 20 minutes.
- Flip chicken over and cook for 20 minutes.
- Flip chicken breast side up again, place vegetables around the dish, and cook for 20 minutes or until meat is thoroughly done.
- Let chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Baked Asparagus
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- 1 pound of asparagus, washed
- olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Cut the thick ends of the asparagus off (about 1-1½ inches) and place on a cookie sheet.
- Drizzle or brush olive oil on asparagus and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
Dress Up the Dining Room
Pull out a tablecloth, silverware, and china, if you have them. A simple bouquet of small roses makes an simple centerpiece. Set the mood with some relaxing music, such as the Something’s Gotta Give soundtrack.
Serve Chocolate and Champagne
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For dessert, serve your favorite chocolate with chilled champagne.Try Barefoot Bubbly Moscato Spumante, sold at Target, for a good option under $20.
Laugh
Snuggle with your date while watching a romantic comedy from Redbox such as Red, Date Night, or The Bounty Hunter.
Give a Heartfelt Valentine
For a gift with meaning, write a letter to your sweetheart telling them why you fell in love with them. Alternately, write down things you love about them on strips of paper and place them in a jar. Both gifts can be continual reminders of your love throughout the year.
Looking for a babysitter?
Pump It Up, an inflatable party company in Manassas, hosts a parent’s night out on the first Friday of the month (and on February 13th and 14th). It’s $25 a child ($20 for siblings) for three hours of jumping fun. More information is available here.
