I recently stumbled upon a revealing book – “What We Eat When We Eat Alone: Stories and 100 Recipes”, by authors Deborah Madison and Patrick McFarlin. It is a compilation of the solo eating habits and recipes of the authors’ friends – and a few strangers – from varying ages and phases in their lives. 

Predictably, the book got me thinking about my own preferences when I find myself alone for a meal. While I don’t mind cooking, I spend far less time on myself than I will when sharing a meal. I also gravitate towards childhood favorites – macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and grilled cheese, bacon and tomato sandwiches. I clearly like my carbs. 

A few nights ago, when I knew I would be dining solo, I had a hankering for Kraft macaroni and cheese. You know what I’m talking about ­– the blue box that comes with the bright orange cheese powder (that alone would kill my husband!).

The stuff is frighteningly addictive, though I hadn’t eaten it since I was a kid, often paired with Dr. Pepper and viewings of The Goonies. But there it was. Disturbed by this random and unhealthy longing, I couldn’t bring myself to go to the store and actually buy it. For those of you who can, I commend you.

So, to satisfy the desire, I found an alternate mac-n-cheese recipe on the food blog The Kitchn. It's a bit more sophisticated but only marginally less shameful. I think it will suffice if you find yourself with a similar craving. It also goes nicely with a glass of red wine and The Goonies, thank you very much.