Nearly every year I have the same resolution: cook more from my cookbook collection. And this year is no different. And I have been! Cooking from them more, that is. So, this week I’m highlighting three cookbooks I really love and highly recommend.
Smitten Kitchen Keepers by Deb Perelman
The best way to describe this cookbook is highly cookable and repeatable. Everything in here is easy to make and, truly, got me out of a months-long cooking rut. It’s recipes that are achievable enough for weeknights and then some that are longer, best left for weekends. And, truly, everything I’ve made I’ve wanted to make again and again (many I have!). Some favorites include a sheet-pan pizza with chile, fennel, and soppresata, a pork ragu that really has no right being as delicious as it is, a one-pan orzo with mozzeralla and artichokes, a chicken noodle soup loaded with chile crisp and scallions, and an herby baked feta that makes it very easy to eat a whole block of cheese.
Vegan for Everybody by America’s Test Kitchen
I am not vegan, but I do try to eat more plant-based—and this cookbook makes it very easy. However, the recipes are also just very, very good. And so thoroughly tested and vetted. The caesar dressing from the kale caesar salad has become a family go-to (the whole salad’s excellent as well), the cauliflower tacos are very satisfying, and I recommend making a double batch of the potato-carrot nacho cheese when you make the loaded nachos, as it’s a great dip.
Simply Genius by Kristen Miglore
If you, like I, have been a fan of the Genius Recipes column on Food52 and enjoyed Kristen’s other two Genius cookbooks, you’ll love her newest, too. And if you’re not familar, you’re in for a treat. Some of the recipes are pretty iconic and well-recognizable for those familiar with Food52 (like the slow-baked broccoli frittata and pork shoulder ragu), while others are new to me. All of them have little something different (a trick, a tip, a technique) that makes them, well, genius. I’m particularly looking forward to mking the tahini granola, pasta con ceci, and pizza gnocchi.
I have to try Vegan for Everybody! 🥬
Really good suggestions all well worth it!