casseroles are also awesome. you just cut up whatever you have around, add some ****es, put it in a pan and bake. voila. different ****es create different flavors. i'm sure there are some websites out there that specify which are for what region/type of flavor. i think what makes the best cook is creativity and knowing how to put flavors together rather than actual recipes.

i'd say if you start from scratch, start with "ingredient-themes".

i.e., choose a vegetable (which is available where you are) and research recipes on the web and start with the easiest ones.
let's say "cu***ber" - that would make tsatsiki (with garlic and yogurt),
cu***ber salad, it goes well on great sandwiches etc.
or "potato" - roasted potatoes, potato-gratin, mashed potatoes...all very simple recipes that don't need special skills or many other ingredients.


also learn to make the easy basics: salad dressings, frying meat, pancakes (stuffed with salad: yummy), fruit salads, chili, pasta sauces...