One of the most common thing students at The Chopping Block say they want to master is the ability to not have to follow a recipe. They want the confidence to throw flavors together and be able to work with what they have on hand, rather than following a recipe.
One thing I recommend for beginning cooks is to focus on regional flavors. For example, adding lemon, oregano and garlic is a simple way to impart a nice Greek flavor to any dish you’re making. Another tip is to experiment with the spices and herbs you have on hand to make your own seasoning blends. Keep a jar of your favorite spice blend or “shake” to add a well-balanced flavor to virtually anything you cook!
If you want to become a more confident cook, use up what’s in your fridge more efficiently, and use recipes less, consider taking The Chopping Block's Culinary Boot Camp 1. Spend a week learning techniques and end the week by using those techniques to make food you’ve always wanted to attempt to cook! You’ll also learn about Knife Skills and Flavor Dynamics in this intensive class, which is the ultimate cure to any cooking rut you may be experiencing.