ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, March 24, 2025 — A recent survey reveals that cooking is deemed the ultimate green flag by 78% of singles aged 18-35. This demographic is significantly influenced by culinary skills when it comes to dating, with 65% more likely to connect with someone on a dating app if they have a passion for cooking. Moreover, 37% of respondents indicated they wouldn’t even consider dating someone who can’t cook.
The survey conducted internationally highlights that three quarters (75%) of respondents have prepared a meal, while 32% have learned to cook specifically to impress a date. Notably, an astounding 90% of singles are more inclined to agree to a second date if treated to a fantastic home-cooked meal.
In response to these findings, a new campaign has been launched to encourage singles to embrace cooking as a way to enhance their dating experiences. The initiative suggests showcasing cooking skills on dating profiles, positioning culinary talent as an appealing trait in the search for romance.
Cooking emerges as one of the most attractive interests, cited by 81% of respondents, followed closely by skincare routines (72%) and sports (70%). Lesser interests such as reading horoscopes (26%) and hosting a podcast (19%) ranked at the bottom of the list.
Why is culinary ability considered so enticing? Nearly half of participants (49%) believe it reflects independence, while 47% agree it demonstrates the ability to care for others, and 37% see it as a sign of thoughtfulness.
When it comes to specific cooking skills, creative recipes (49%), personal twists on dishes (44%), proficient chopping techniques (39%), and plating skills (33%) are the most attractive attributes. In contrast, flambéing (8%) and flashy seasoning techniques (13%) receive less appreciation.
However, singles should tread carefully—17% of respondents admit to exaggerating their cooking skills to impress potential partners, and 13% have gone as far as serving store-bought food as their own during dates.
The campaign is dedicated to promoting cooking as a universal green flag that everyone can agree on. Cooking not only showcases creativity but also fosters connection and care in relationships.
For those in search of love or simply a taste-testing companion for their culinary creations, enhancing cooking skills is now seen as an essential upgrade for dating profiles.
