Cooking.

This weekend I attempted to pre-cook some meals in preparation of the rest of the week. This looks very adult and organized on pinterest; in my kitchen, it's a little more touch-and-go.

Part of my problem is that there is some very stubborn part of me that's certain I know better than the recipe. This is half right; I won't like how the recipe does it. I just don't know how to substitute things I do like. That's a Becky Greene skill that I have not yet acquired--although she keeps reminding me that when she was my age she wasn't the cook she is now, and that I will learn by continuing to practice.

The problem is, practice is expensive and time consuming. I'm pretty sure I just started something in my slow cooker that will end up costing me 6 hours and $10 (not bad for several meals, but a bummer to waste) for some chicken that I won't eat because I put way too much water in. Not something I will be in a hurry to recreate, but I do think I already figured out the solution I should have tried.

I have mastered any pasta and meatballs. I have ravioli I keep meaning to make, but opening a jar of sauce is a commitment in itself as well. Partly there is just no good way to buy food in bulk/cheaper but cook for one person without anything getting spoiled. Breakfast is an easy solution, but I started missing the feeling of three meals a day. Veggies are still not finding their way on my plate, but I have some plans for that.

What are your best cooking recipes for picky eaters with very little time? Think creamy sauces with no fanciness, or veggies with lots of sugar or salt. Essentially it's like cooking for a toddler.