10 Best Cookbooks Books 2025 in the United States

The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook offers a comprehensive collection of 500 recipes, making it a great resource for anyone interested in Mediterranean cuisine. This cookbook excels in providing a variety of recipes that cater to different skill levels, from beginners to more experienced cooks. The focus on Mediterranean cuisine means it features healthy, flavorful dishes that often align with dietary preferences such as low-carb, vegetarian, and heart-healthy options.

Ingredient accessibility is generally good, with many recipes using common items available in most grocery stores. Some specialized ingredients may be harder to find, depending on your location, but alternatives are often suggested. The book's visual appeal is enhanced by clear, enticing photos and an easy-to-read layout.

Authored by America's Test Kitchen, the expertise behind this cookbook is reliable, with thoroughly tested and well-explained recipes. One potential drawback is the book's physical size and weight, which might make it less portable. However, its extensive content and detailed instructions outweigh this minor inconvenience, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Ottolenghi Simple: A Cookbook is created by the renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi, which brings a wealth of expertise to the table. The cookbook focuses on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, known for its rich flavors and healthy ingredients. It is suitable for home cooks of all skill levels, providing clear instructions and well-organized recipes. This makes it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced cooks looking to explore new flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

The recipes cater to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, offering something for everyone. However, it may not be the best fit for those strictly following vegan or specific dietary regimes without modification. A wide range of dishes is covered, from appetizers to desserts, ensuring you have plenty of choices for different occasions. The ingredients, while mostly accessible, do sometimes include specialty items that might require a trip to a dedicated grocery store or online purchase.

The visual appeal of the cookbook is high, with beautiful photographs accompanying many of the recipes, which can be very inspiring and helpful for presentation ideas. The hardcover format and quality printing add to its durability and overall value. 'Ottolenghi Simple: A Cookbook' is an excellent addition to any kitchen, particularly for those interested in Mediterranean cuisine and looking to elevate their cooking with straightforward yet impressive recipes.

‘Go-To Dinners: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook’ by Ina Garten offers a variety of practical and delicious recipes aimed at making dinner preparation easier. The book caters to a wide range of culinary tastes with its diverse selection of dishes, making it versatile for different cuisine preferences. Most recipes are designed to be approachable, even for those with basic cooking skills, ensuring accessibility for home cooks of all levels. However, some dishes might require a bit more time and attention, which could be a consideration for very busy individuals or beginners seeking quick solutions.

The cookbook includes thoughtful attention to dietary preferences, offering options for vegetarians and those seeking healthier meals without sacrificing flavor. One of the strengths of this cookbook is its emphasis on using readily available ingredients, which helps in reducing the hassle of sourcing special items. Visually, the book is appealing with high-quality photographs that make the dishes look enticing and provide a helpful reference for presentation.

As the author, Ina Garten brings her extensive expertise and reputation from her popular ‘Barefoot Contessa’ series, which adds credibility and trust for those familiar with her work. On the downside, while the book is comprehensive, its hardcover format and substantial weight might make it less portable for those who prefer a more lightweight or digital option. Additionally, the price point might be a bit higher compared to other cookbooks, but it reflects the quality and detailed content provided. This cookbook is especially beneficial for home cooks seeking reliable, elegant, yet manageable dinner recipes that can become household staples.