My cookbook collection is huge. I don’t see them as just dinner inspiration! I often read the cover of my favorite cookbook more than once.
The cookbooks in this post are my current favorites. They’re the things I flip over and over again for impromptu cooking inspiration and precise recipes. I especially love these eight because they’re not only filled with delicious recipes but also have beautiful handwriting, fun pictures, and a unique approach to cooking.
I hope you find something you like in the list of my favorite cookbooks below!
01
Recipes without recipes by Sam Sifton
Recipes without recipes is one of those cookbooks that I turn to when I’m feeling confused. The author’s dishes push me out of my comfort zone and encourage me to try flavors that I don’t always appeal to. They also taught me how to use my pantry really effectively.
02
India (-ish) by Priya Krishna
When I want to feel a little challenged by a recipe that is new to me (without any formulas being too difficult), I turn to This cookbook. All the dishes I tried were delicious and tempting.
03
One: Pot, Pan, Planet by Anna Jones (gift)
This is a cookbook I can easily refer to when I want to make a meal from what I already have in my fridge. The author’s insights also make me want to be a better steward of our planet through the food I buy and consume. This cookbook was a surprise gift from the author’s publisher when the book was released in the US and the day it arrived, I read it from cover to cover. Since then, it’s been my most consulted cookbook!
04
Cook’s Book by Nigel Slater
I’m no stranger to Nigel Slater’s cookbooks — I bought the first one when I was about to go through my divorce many years ago. i bought This cookbook earlier this year and love it so much. Features beautiful writing, beautiful pictures and a wide variety of vegan and plant-based dishes. Unlike Sam Sifton’s recipes, the flavors Nigel uses are ones that I really like. I think it’s important to find recipe creators who work with foods you’re already comfortable with (along with people who push you outside your comfort zone).
05
Tables for friends by Skye McAlpine
This cookbook took me through the holiday organizer. I love entertainment and so does this author. The cookbook is organized by dish type (main, side, etc.) and includes plenty of storage tips throughout. One of my friends Cookbook Club members gave each of us a copy and we’ve been cooking it since late 2021. Most of my dinner party meals have come from this book since receiving it.
06
Nothing fancy by Alison Roman
This cookbook, which I’ve kept on the shelf for years, features simple, delicious everyday dishes. I have cooked so many dishes from it over the years that it is falling apart.
07
Modern man by Michelle McKenzie
This cookbook sorted by ingredients, combined with recipes that have each ingredient. It resembles Anna Jones’ cookbook style in that Michelle teaches you to get creative with simple recipes. It also includes really clear instructions and tricks that can get you out of a cooking mess in under a second.
08
Old World Italy by Mimi Thorisson
At first sight, This cookbook It can feel a little intimidating — but it’s worth buying, I promise. Mimi explores Italian cuisine by region. My Italian recipes just got so much better thanks to this cookbook.
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Kate is currently learning to play the ukulele, leaving her husband, children and dogs desperate. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
