Make Your Parents Dinner: You’ve Had 18 Years of Practice!

Let’s face it, your parents have been feeding you your whole life. It’s about time you returned the favor! Cooking is a life skill you’ll be grateful for in college (or whenever you get your own kitchen).

I remember my senior year in college when a friend named Danny couldn’t cook anything. Literally. Our film class made a documentary about teaching 22-year-old Danny how to cook a chicken breast. Hilarious? Yes. But also a warning: it’s better to practice now before you’re on your own.

Here are five beginner-friendly recipes that will make you look like a kitchen pro.

1. Wok This Way: Stir-Fry Veggies and Rice

Quick, healthy, and perfect for date night—or just a tasty solo dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)

• Mixed veggies (fresh or frozen)

• Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce

• Protein of your choice (chicken, tofu, or beef)

• Olive oil or sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.

2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté your protein until cooked through.

3. Add veggies and stir-fry until tender.

4. Toss everything together with soy or teriyaki sauce and serve over rice.

Pro tip: Add butter, a pinch of salt, or a splash of chicken broth to your rice for extra flavor.

2. Taco 'Bout Easy

Tacos are a safe bet—everyone loves them!

Ingredients:

• Ground beef, chicken, or beans (for a vegetarian option)

• Taco seasoning (or homemade: cumin, chili powder, garlic)

• Tortillas (soft or hard shell)

• Toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, salsa, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Brown your meat (or heat beans) in a pan, then stir in taco seasoning with a splash of water and simmer.

2. Warm tortillas in a pan or microwave.

3. Assemble tacos with your favorite toppings.

Pro tip: Save leftover seasoned meat for scrambled eggs the next morning—it’s a game changer.

3. Viva la Pasta: Aglio e Olio

Simple, elegant, and perfect for impressing friends.

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti (or any pasta)

• Olive oil (Italian if possible)

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated tastes best)

Instructions:

1. Boil pasta according to package directions.

2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan, then sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.

3. Drain pasta and toss it in the garlic olive oil.

4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve.

Pro tip: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

4. Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner: Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies

One tray, one meal—done.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts or thighs

• Assorted veggies (potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)

• Olive oil

• Salt, pepper, and herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut veggies into bite-sized pieces and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.

3. Place chicken and veggies on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked and veggies are tender.

Pro tip: Leftovers make a perfect addition to your Aglio e Olio pasta the next day.

5. I Prefer to Call It a Toastie: Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese, leveled up. Presentation counts, so slice neatly and pair with tomato soup for extra flair.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough or whole grain works best)

• Cheese mixture (Gruyere + Cheddar is a game changer)

• Butter

• Optional extras: caramelized onions, tomato slices, bacon, or herbs

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.

3. Place cheese (and extras if using) between slices, with buttered sides facing out.

4. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Pro tip: Layer extras like caramelized onions or bacon inside before grilling for maximum flavor.

Now you’re ready to impress your parents, friends, or even yourself. Plus, you can finally skip the cafeteria once in a while.