mostly_runner23

Totally get where you’re coming from! After juggling work and kids, cooking can feel like just another chore rather than something fun. What helped me was treating weekend prep like a mini “ingredient stash” session - chopping veggies, cooking grains, or roasting a protein that I could mix and match during the week. That way, I wasn’t tied to a strict recipe but had flexible building blocks ready to go. Also, I started thinking of dinners as “themes” instead of recipes - like taco night, stir-fry, or pasta bowls - so I could swap in whatever I had on hand without stressing about exact ingredients. It made it easier to keep things interesting and relaxed. You might find that approach helps you feel more confident and creative without adding time or pressure.