This is not too far from what I originally intended to reply to the article itself, too, until I read the other comments. My three would probably be soup, pizza and sweet potato fries. This would give you a kick start on sauces (soup base), breads (pizza dough) and deep frying.

I should also point out that we lived in a small organic farm, giving me the advantage of an abundant source of vegetables, fruits, eggs and dairy.