If you want to ride competively then intervals are very important. There are many different types of intervals so some research is in order. I recommend the Cyclists Training Bible by Joe Friel. That is what my coach bases my training on and it has worked for me. This is my first year racing road bikes, I have done seven races with five top three finishes, one dnf due to a teammate having a serious crash and one race I had to set back because I had a teammate in a solo breakaway. In my opinion interval training definitely pays off, after a month of racing I am now a cat 4.

Anyway, as for the weather not being agreeable that doesn't really matter. If you want to be competitive then you need to get on the bike regardless. If you don't like riding in bad weather (can't blame you) then get a trainer or some rollers. You have to ride when others aren't.

Recovering doesn't just involve setting down and drinking water. It also involves days just riding the bike in zone 1. Just taking it easy and spinning the pedals. No real climbs, just relaxing flat rides either on the road or on the trainer. There are still complete days off, generally about one per week.

YMCA is correct on pretty much everything he said. He definitely has more racing experience and knowledge than I do. However if you don't have the legs and the endurance to be able to stay with the pack then you won't be learning much.