I'd love to have a few days (or maybe just my own kitchen!!) of time alone in my kitchen at home. I LOVE food!! haha...It has become a bit of nuisance as of late though. I don't have time to even begin to LEARN how to cook, much less practice. If I did have the time to practice, these are the things I'd love to make...and of course taste afterwards!!

chicken souvlaki

This Greek favorite is usually made with lamb, but boneless chicken works equally well. The cooling, tangy yogurt sauce is the perfect accompaniment to balance out the assertive flavors of Feta, olives, and onion.

pan roasted chicken with lemon garlic green beans

A light dressing of olive oil, lemon, and garlic gives this dish a boost of flavor. The chicken cooks in the same pan as the potatoes and green beans, making cleanup a breeze.

parmesan scallion pastry pinwheels

Your guests will be impressed with these simple yet tasty snacks. Parmesan and sliced scallions dress up store-bought puff pastry, which can be baked six hours ahead or frozen, unbaked, up to 1 week in advance.

potato and celery root mash

Give your usual mashed potatoes a delicious twist by adding a root vegetable that tastes like—you guessed it—celery. The mash can be made up to 1 day in advance; reheat in a bowl over a pot of boiling water.

slow cooker squash lasagna

Use frozen winter squash puree to cut down on prep time—it has all the flavor and nutrients you’ll find in fresh squash. Ricotta and mozzarella ensure the final dish is creamy, cheesy, and rich.

stuffed mushrooms with spinach

Pass these crowd-pleasing bites at a party or as a pre-dinner nosh. The mushroom caps can be baked and stuffed up to 2 days in advance; bake the final product again just before serving.

sweet potato gratin

Give shredded sweet potatoes a cheesy topping of melted Cheddar for a creative take on the usual potato gratin. The bread crumbs become crisp and golden in the oven, giving way to the luxurious, creamy potatoes underneath.