light reading

Recently I had a friend, Allie, ask me for cookbook suggestions to add to her Christmas list. She wanted something relatively easy and healthy. I usually don't cook recipes straight from the cookbook, but I love having them as inspiration and guides when I'm making a similar recipe. What a better time to do some reading than the holidays when you're cozied up on the couch with a glass of tea.. or maybe hot cocoa!


The first book I suggested was Ina Garten's, the Barefoot Contessa, new book, "How Easy is That?". I've always been a big fan of Ina, actually I sometimes wish I was Ina, she's got it made! Her cooking reminds me of being at home with my family, which is odd since Jeffery never seems to be around. Anyway, she's got a kick-A kitchen & herb garden...maybe someday when I've got my own show and house in the Hamptons I'll have a backyard like that too. While she uses a lot of butter, salt and cream in her recipes, I find that they are relatively simple to alter and make lighter but substituting oil for butter, cutting back on the salt and using a lower fat milk (or in some cases, no milk!). Well, unless you're baking - just splurge.


My second recommendation is any Jamie Oliver book. He's sort of a cheesy-looking Brit, but he's got good intentions. I personally don't own one of his books, but am fascinated by his dedication to healthy living and making sure everyone has the capability and knowledge to make smart, educated decisions. He's made a living (and a huge difference in the lives of hundreds, thousands, maybe millions of children and adults) by reforming the school lunch programs to offer healthier options. If you haven't seen his show, Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution, I recommend you do — it's eye-opening.

The last cookbook suggestion was Francis Mallman's Seven Fires. Let's face it. I'm pretty much obsessed with this chef. I love his rustic cooking style and his respect for fire. "Honor the first touch" has become somewhat of a mantra I repeat to myself when grilling. It's a different approach to cooking that reminds me why I love it.

While this book isn't the most practical, well not unless you have a huge backyard and the resources to buy or make a grill like this one, the book is great. The pictures are fabulous and so are the recipes. Even though I don't have a monster grill like his, I've managed to cook the recipes on a grill pan or skillet with excellent results. If you're looking for something truly inspiring, this is a great one to add to your collection.

Of course, I haven't read every book out there, so tell me, what's your favorite cookbook, and why? I'd love more suggestions!