If you can only manage to cook some toast and whip together some cereal throughout the day, then you may be interested in learning more about cooking techniques that will help you master the art of dinner.

Feel like more of a pro in your kitchen with these newfound, classic cooking practices:

1. Searing

Everyone assumes that searing is best left to the professional chefs – but they couldn’t be more wrong. Searing involves taking a piece of meat, and pressing it against a very hot surface to form an outer crust that seals in juices. You can do it with any kind of pan to round off your dinner.

1. Sauté

Cooking food in a small amount of oil is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dinner. Be sure to heat the pan before adding the oil. Once the oil is added, quickly throw in your vegetables and meats, stirring them around aggressively so even heat is cooked into the pieces through the oil.

1. Brining

Preparing your meat ahead of time with delicious juices is the way to go. Brining typically calls for ¾ cup of salt and ¾ cup of sugar in one gallon of cold water for poultry or large roasts, or ¼ cup of salt and ¼ cup of sugar in eight cups of water for smaller pieces. Let is soak 6 to 12-hours to really get your meat ready for consumption.

Of course, don’t forget about roasting either. Turning the oven on and popping in sliced fruit, vegetables, and meats is a great and easy way to get a warm, comforting meal while you sit down and read or book or watch some television. You’re now ready to master the art of dinner.