To think if you hate cooking for friends don't do it

[Vintagejazzing]

I have a couple of friends who really hate cooking and aren't very good cooks. One just invites us over for pizza or an M&S meal deal and we always have a great evening.
The other gets herself into a total panic trying to cook a 3 course meal. She spends the whole time out in the kitchen then, during the meal, is constantly jumping up and down saying 'would anyone prefer chutney' 'oh, I forgot to put out the tomatoes' 'oh there's apple sauce as well as mint sauce' and we spend the whole time reassuring her that it's lovely, everything is fine etc. We honestly don't relax and enjoy the evening until dinner is over and we can sit back with our wine and have a proper conversation.

My sister won't invite anyone over to eat because she can't cook. I'm always saying to her just have pizza or treat everyone to a takeaway.

AIBU to say if cooking causes you huge stress and hassle there's no shame in giving people pre cooked meals or something really easy and simple? People would much prefer that to a poorly cooked meal that has obviously caused the hostess enormous angst and worry and expense to prepare?

I agree. Some people seem to like making their own life more difficult.

My poor mum is an amazing cook, but she spent an entire day cooking and baking a few weeks ago for my niece's 5th birthday. There was loads left over, and she was too exhausted and run down. We appreciate the thought and the effort, but can just keep things simple

The best hosts are relaxed ones, whether they've home made or thrown a pizza in the oven.
I've a friend who is a wonderful cook but fuck me she's anxious, the meal is always late as she wants it to be perfect, everyone gets hangry, it's a nightmare. I don't there for dinner now.

One of my friends is an unconfident cook. She used to invite us round then stress herself out by cooking several things and timing it all wrong.

I like to cook but sometimes I can't be bothered to worry about cooking while everyone is there. I just buy fresh bread, cheese and a few mezze style dishes then cook a couple of easy things. People still rave about how good the food was, even if I didn't cook most it myself.