My Best Cooking Advice? Don’t.


Special ingredient of this recipe: a break!

Moi aussi... It’s Thursday, I’m tired, and there’s another dinner to prepare. And as I write this? Frozen pizzas are in the oven. Because tonight, I just don’t have it in me and that’s okay.

I used to think every meal had to be homemade, balanced, and just right. But you know what I’ve learned? Some nights, the best thing you can do is… not cook at all.

Yes, we could push through, but—doesn’t our body and mind deserve a break? I think yes.

Here’s what it can look like for you:

  • Ordering takeout without guilt.
  • Grabbing a frozen pizza and calling it dinner.
  • Saying yes to a meal service if you need a longer break (if you need advice, happy to chat the one I use, yes, I do that too.)
  • Making the simplest meal possible—hello, buttered pasta + shredded cheese.
  • Letting go of the idea that every meal needs to be "perfect", you'll cook something from my blog next time :)

Because food isn’t just about what’s on the plate, it’s about the moments we create around it. When you see friends and family, do you care about the food or seeing them?

So tonight, whether it’s takeout, frozen pizza, or a pot of pasta, enjoy your family. Share a moment from this busy week, laugh a little, and let dinner be the background for tonight!


How do you handle the nights when cooking feels like too much?

  • Tell me I’m not alone in this! Hit reply and let me know how you handle those nights when cooking feels like too much.
  • Forward this to someone that needs to hear this today!

No stress, no guilt, just real-life food talk.

Mél

If you are new here...

Welcome! You can find my previous newsletters here.

Petit Porcini

Come hang out in my French kitchen abroad!

Read more from Petit Porcini
lasagna slice

Spring is in the air, and it’s time for fresh, vibrant flavours! If you're looking for a lighter, veggie-packed twist on classic comfort food, my Mediterranean Lasagna is the perfect dish. This recipe swaps heavy layers for a fresh, colourful medley of Mediterranean ingredients—think roasted veggies, bright tomato sauce, and creamy goat cheese all layered between delicate lasagna sheets. It’s a vegetarian delight that feels just right for this time of year! Did I mention the goat cheese? Yum....

chouquette in brown bag.

Bonsoir ! If you've ever been to France, you’re probably missing the delicious bakery treats that greet you on every corner. And if you’ve never had the chance to visit, allow me to take you on a little culinary journey with some classic French desserts. This week, I'm sharing four irresistible treats that will bring the flavours of France right to your kitchen. Bon appétit! Important note: My recipes have step by step pictures so I hope you don't feel intimidated by them! I also don't use...

savoury cake

In France, l’apéro is more than just a pre-dinner snack; it’s an important moment that signals the end of a busy day and the beginning of relaxation. It’s about slowing down, enjoying small bites, and sharing a moment with friends or family—no rush, no pressure, just the simple pleasure of chatting and unwinding. For us, we typically mark it on Fridays to kick off the weekend. As we transition from winter to spring (soon I hope!), there’s no better time to embrace this ritual if you don't...