In English, when we’re done eating, we often say, “I’m full.” In French, they say, “Je n’ai plus faim,” meaning, “I’m no longer hungry.” There’s a big difference between feeling sated and feeling like we can’t stuff in another mouthful. Eat like the French. Leave room for dessert.

I used to be terrified of recipes. Of not following them, I mean. I was convinced that if I got an ingredient amount even a little wrong, or cooked something a little longer than was recommended, the dish would be ruined. It became something of a burden.