I don't like dumplings. Why eat ground meat when you can eat steak?
And if we're talking about dishes with ground meat... then, for example, using good ground meat, you can make a decent Bolognese pasta. And if we're talking about cutlets, only from minced meat. That's a top-tier option.
Then the wife won't be... oh, right, nothing will change.
I love food with lots of sauce, and things that my surroundings often consider too salty are perfect for me. But I don't pickle fresh cucumbers and find this idea strange. However, I'm not a fan of canned pickled cucumbers either; I find marinated ones much tastier. But to slice fresh ones into rounds and put them on a sandwich with cheese is a good flavor combination.
Regarding eggs – only soft-boiled or poached. Although hard-boiled eggs are also good in salads.

