Cooking for Two

Over the last week I've had the apartment to myself, and with a dinner party and strategic placement of leftovers, I haven't had to cook much in the way of dinners and lunches. But now he's back, and the reality of co-habitation is beginning to set in by way of "What's for dinner?" on repeat.

For the most part, man-friend is satisfied with anything I cook. He politely offers suggestions about which flavors are too strong, and sheepishly notes that I could add more spice to each dish. (With my preference for salt over heat, he is regularly ignored.) But now that we're full time, I've come to realize that cooking every night isn't as much of a whirlwind romance as I had anticipated. 

Monday through Friday I mimic a circus sideshow act known as "The woman with eight arms and not enough time or energy", so coming home only to jive my creative juices towards what goes on the table seems laughable. 

HOW DO PARENTS DO IT? I don't even have kids and I've already resorted to spaghetti twice this week.

Practicality rings loud and clear when I think I can just casually pop over to the grocery store to get whatever ingredients I need. I thought it was going to be easier now that I have someone to help me eat the leftovers! Luckily it is helpful for cleaning the refrigerator, but not so helpful come work-week lunch plans.

I've found websites are actively trying to maintain our sanity by creating lists of "Ten Meals to make from Five Ingredients or less", but let's be honest, after the third day of chicken breast, you're over it and ready to order a pizza. Mission fail.

How does one prevent cooking-- and therefore eating-- from becoming a chore?