Answer:
a positive externality
Step-by-step explanation:
A positive externality is said to occur when a good or service that is produced or consumed by an individual for his benefits, also benefits another third party.
In the scenario sited in the question above about my roommate, his trying of new recipes does not only help him in his pursuit of being a good chef, but also serves as a benefit to other people who eat his delicious creations he left available in the fridge to anyone to have access to. This is an example of a positive externality.