It used to be said that the ‘way to a man’s heart was through his stomach’. And that’s one road in according to leading surgeons, but it’s not really gender specific. Ask anyone if food tastes better when someone else cooks it for you and they would wholeheartedly agree. So that’s your challenge today: provide nourishment for someone. And no, we’re not talking about two minute noodles.

In the rush of work, deadlines and social engagements, we can sometimes feel like we are moving at a million miles an hour. Instead of meeting for a quick drink or grabbing a takeaway, take the time to cook a meal for a friend.  It doesn’t have to be a mad rush to get something on the plate. Plan your day; head to the market for fresh ingredients and invite your friend over to catch up, whilst dinner is in the oven.

What do you get out of this?

Well for a start, you were going to cook yourself dinner anyway, so you’re not exactly at a loss.

Cooking can also be quite therapeutic. By taking the time to unwind and follow a recipe, you might find that you forget about that work project. In fact, some clinics are using cooking as therapy for people with depression and anxiety.

The social aspect of inviting a friend over also has a positive effect on us. We are, after all, social beings.

Stuck for recipe ideas?

Check out the links below, or get creative and come up with your own masterpiece:

• Jamie Oliver has some great Dinner for Two Recipes, if spiced sea bass and ginger shakin’ beef sound like your thing.
• Taste has a huge range of 608 recipes specifically for one or two people.
• On a diet? That doesn’t mean you can come up with something impressive. Take a look at the SBS healthy recipe collection.
• Want to liven up that boring chicken dinner? See Genius Kitchen’s 34 ways to say no to boring chicken breasts.
  

So… is that it?

Pretty much. All you need to do is invite your friend to your place at a specified time, pour them a glass of whatever beverage they delight in, and serve them up a tasty and nutritious dinner.

Be sure to enquire if your friend has any dietary requirements, allergies or intolerances. It’s really important you do because, for some people, the gift of peanuts or prawns could result in a very stressful journey to the hospital by ambulance, for others – just a touch of gluten will have them feeling very ill and possibly requiring medical attention. You may also inadvertently offend your vegan friend by serving steak, eggs or cheese. Always ask.

To celebrate #GivingTuesday, we are asking Australians to give a little and then share their efforts with a photo or post on Facebook or LinkedIn. All you need to do is tag @good2give  #GivingTuesday with your post.

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