The best thing my Mother ever told me was "If you can read, you can cook."
The Joy of Cooking is great - very very detailed and will tell you everything you need to know about, well...everything! ('cept sex
)
The main thing....use good, fresh ingredients....have the right equipment (nothing worse than needing a certain pan and realizing mid-way through you don't have one).....and have fun - don't be afraid to experiment. Try a recipe and if you think you can improve upon it - then go for it...what have you got to lose other than a few taste buds?
Best advice....just have fun, and enjoy....one day your lady will love your efforts!
