Margaret Roach’s 12 Days of Cookbooks Season’s Latest Titles

There’s a certain magic in the air, a feeling of anticipation that permeates various seasons, making each “the most wonderful time of the year.” For me, this sentiment isn’t reserved just for holidays or specific milestones. It’s when my first CSA box bursts with fresh produce in June, signaling the bounty of summer. It’s the intoxicating aroma of ripe tomatoes, practically tumbling off the vine in early September, promising juicy salads and rich sauces. It’s the enchanting sight of snowflakes, as grand as golf balls, gracefully descending from the sky, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. But perhaps most of all, this sense of wonder peaks when it’s time to delve into the captivating world of cookbooks with my dear friend, Margaret Roach, the renowned master gardener and the creative mind behind A Way to Garden. Our annual cookbook discussion has become a cherished tradition, a culinary compass guiding us through the seasons’ most exciting releases.

Last year, our conversation took a nostalgic turn, exploring our all-time favorite cookbooks. We reminisced about the very first culinary treasures we ever owned and proudly highlighted the pages most besmirched with splatters and stains – true marks of a well-loved and well-used recipe companion. This year, we’ve focused our passion on the freshest crop of culinary inspirations: the exceptional fall and winter 2018 cookbooks. Our in-depth chat aims to spark your imagination, offering a curated selection perfect for holiday gift-giving or simply to refresh your own kitchen repertoire this season. From the ardent bakers and beverage enthusiasts to the devoted pie and pizza aficionados, and from steadfast fans of Ina Garten and Dorie Greenspan to collectors of innovative kitchen gadgets, we guarantee there’s something truly special for every palate and preference. These books represent the very best of contemporary cooking, blending tradition with innovation and practical advice with pure culinary joy.

For those who prefer to listen in or read along, you can find the full transcript or listen to our discussion here. While I haven’t had the luxury of cooking from every single book we highlighted – a delightful task I look forward to tackling – and many others are still on my “to page through” list, such as Emily: The Cookbook, which currently holds the coveted #1 spot on my Christmas wishlist (Santa, if you’re reading this, take note!), I have certainly made my way through a number of the season’s exciting new releases. My personal notes and culinary adventures with these books are detailed below, offering a glimpse into their practical application and delicious results.

Adding to the excitement, Margaret and I are each giving away an incredible 12 cookbooks! That’s a grand total of 24 opportunities for you to win some fantastic new additions to your kitchen library. To enter this generous giveaway, simply leave a comment below. Share with us your favorite cookbook for gifting – or even just your personal, indispensable favorite – and tell us a little bit about what makes it so special. To maximize your chances and double your entries, be sure to copy your insightful comment and paste it into the comment section over at Margaret’s website as well. This is a wonderful opportunity to win some of the most talked-about cookbooks of the season, handpicked by two passionate food and garden enthusiasts.

To help navigate this exciting collection of new releases, Margaret and I thoughtfully organized the books into several categories. Our first grouping focuses on those indispensable volumes that make daily cooking, especially on busy weeknights, both manageable and remarkably delicious. If you’re constantly seeking fresh inspiration to get a fantastic dinner on the table without hours of effort, these selections are for you.

Category #1: Weeknight-ish/Everyday Cooking – Streamlined Culinary Solutions

Ottolenghi Simple: While not exclusively a vegetarian cookbook, Ottolenghi Simple masterfully leans into a heavily plant-forward approach, delivering an abundance of truly inspiring recipes that are both accessible and bursting with flavor. Think vibrant harissa tofu scramble or a refreshing sweet potato mash elevated with a bright lime salsa. This book beautifully demystifies the Ottolenghi experience, proving that his signature complex flavors can be achieved with surprisingly straightforward techniques and fewer ingredients. For those in the States, be sure to order this specific edition, as the British version may have slightly different measurements or ingredient names. It’s a must-have for anyone seeking to inject exciting, healthy, and relatively quick meals into their weekly routine.

Milk Street Tuesday Nights: Prepare your taste buds for a global journey with Milk Street Tuesday Nights. Christopher Kimball, in his insightful introduction, challenges the notion that complex flavor requires extensive cooking time, a principle often rooted in French culinary traditions. Instead, he highlights that in many parts of the world, incredible depth of flavor is built swiftly and efficiently through the judicious use of ingredients: aromatic herbs, exotic spices, and savory fermented sauces. This book is cleverly organized into “Fast, Faster, Fastest” categories, making it incredibly easy to choose a recipe that fits your schedule. A quick glance through its pages has already tempted me with exciting dishes like peanut-sesame noodles, fragrant Thai spinach, and succulent white balsamic chicken. It’s an essential resource for home cooks looking to expand their global flavor repertoire on the busiest of weeknights.

Everyday Dorie: My admiration for Dorie Greenspan’s approachable and utterly delicious cooking style runs deep, and Everyday Dorie only deepens it. This collection embodies her philosophy of no-fuss, simple meals that deliver exceptional results. I recently tried her spatchcocked chicken, seasoned with an intoxicating blend of za’atar, sumac, and cumin, and the outcome was nothing short of divine. The recipe was straightforward, the flavors were complex and satisfying, and it quickly became a new family favorite. Dorie has a knack for making sophisticated dishes feel entirely achievable for the home cook, and this book is a testament to that talent. Stay tuned, as I’ll likely be sharing more about my culinary adventures with this particular volume very soon!

Cook Like a Pro: A true gem for long-time Ina Garten enthusiasts and a fantastic introduction for those new to her elegant yet accessible style, Cook Like a Pro is all about elevating your home cooking with Ina’s signature foolproof techniques and timeless recipes. Ina’s philosophy centers on demystifying culinary processes, encouraging home cooks to embrace simple, high-quality ingredients and confident execution. I particularly adored the Charlie Bird farro salad from this collection – a perfect example of her ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly special. This book empowers you to cook with the precision and flair of a professional, all within the comfort of your own kitchen.

Skinny Taste One and Done: This cookbook is an absolute revelation for anyone seeking ultimate efficiency in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or health. I was genuinely astonished by the Instant Spaghetti and Meat Sauce recipe – it was not only incredibly delicious but also, miraculously, prepared entirely in one pot! The sheer joy of an easy cleanup cannot be overstated. Skinny Taste One and Done is a celebration of single-vessel cooking, whether you prefer electric appliances like a pressure cooker, slow cooker, or air fryer, or traditional tools such as a Dutch oven, sheet pan, skillet, or grill pan. Every meal in this collection promises minimal washing up and maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy individuals and families who crave nutritious, satisfying meals with remarkable ease.

Melissa Clark’s Comfort in an Instant: If you have a friend who is utterly obsessed with their Instant Pot – or if you are that friend – then Melissa Clark’s Comfort in an Instant is the perfect gift. This exceptional book showcases the true potential of the Instant Pot, offering 50 comforting, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying recipes that can be made from start to finish in less than 60 minutes. Melissa Clark, a master of accessible and delicious home cooking, expertly guides readers through using their pressure cooker to create everything from hearty stews to flavorful grains and tender meats with remarkable speed. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be a labor-intensive affair.

Hungry for More: Chrissy Teigen’s second cookbook, Hungry for More, is a delightful follow-up to her wildly popular debut, continuing her signature blend of humor, relatable anecdotes, and incredibly tasty, often “healthy-ish” recipes. This book is for fans of Chrissy’s vibrant personality and anyone looking for approachable, flavorful meals that don’t take themselves too seriously. Just last night, I whipped up the oven-baked potato chips from this book, and they were absolutely delicious – crispy, seasoned perfectly, and a fantastic alternative to their fried counterparts. Chrissy’s ability to infuse joy and practicality into her recipes makes this cookbook a truly enjoyable and frequently used addition to any kitchen.

Cook90: On January 1st, 2016, David Tamarkin, then of Epicurious, embarked on a transformative culinary resolution: to cook three meals a day for an entire month, an experiment he dubbed “Cook90.” This ambitious challenge ultimately reshaped his approach to food, making him a better, faster, and healthier cook. Since then, his ingenious concept has inspired hundreds of thousands of others to embrace the same journey. His cookbook, Cook90, meticulously outlines exactly how to replicate this life-changing experience. It’s more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a comprehensive guide filled with actionable strategies, detailed meal plans, and practical tips designed to empower home cooks to take control of their kitchens, reduce reliance on takeout, and discover the immense satisfaction of cooking almost every meal from scratch. This book is perfect for anyone looking to reset their eating habits and dramatically improve their culinary skills.

Category #2: Global Flavors – Exploring the World Through Food

Together: More than just a cookbook, Together is a poignant and powerful collection of recipes born from the hearts and kitchens of women profoundly affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy in London. This book is a testament to the unifying power of food and community, showcasing traditional dishes and shared meals that brought comfort, solace, and connection during an unimaginable time. Each recipe tells a story, offering a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage and unwavering resilience of a community. It’s a beautiful tribute and a cookbook that nourishes the soul as much as the body, making it a truly special addition to any collection.

Israeli Soul: From Michael Solomonov, the culinary genius behind Philadelphia’s renowned Zahav, Israeli Soul is an vibrant exploration of Israel’s street food culture, showcasing the rich, diverse, and utterly delicious flavors that define the nation’s informal cuisine. Frankly, I want to make absolutely everything in this book! So far, my ventures have been incredibly successful, particularly the cauliflower shawarma, which I served as recommended with his quick tehina – a flavor combination that transported me straight to the bustling markets of Jerusalem. The 5-minute hummus, also made with that speedy tehina, is a revelation in itself: fast, fresh, and unbelievably delicious. This book is a fantastic gateway to understanding and recreating authentic Israeli flavors at home, making it perfect for adventurous eaters and those seeking bold, fresh dishes.

Season: From the acclaimed blogger and San Francisco Chronicle contributor Nik Sharma, whose culinary journey began in Bombay, Season is a remarkable collection of recipes that beautifully illustrate the fusion of his Indian upbringing with his new life and acclimation to America. This is not a traditional Indian cookbook; instead, it offers a deeply personal and innovative perspective on flavor, blending familiar techniques with unexpected twists. I have a number of recipes eagerly bookmarked, including the intriguing Bombay frittata and the hearty roasted cauliflower with lentils and paneer. Sharma’s approach to spices and ingredients is both sophisticated and approachable, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in modern, globally inspired cooking with a unique narrative.

Almonds, Anchovies, and Pancetta: Cal Peternell’s latest offering, Almonds, Anchovies, and Pancetta, is a fascinating exploration of how three seemingly disparate, yet incredibly versatile, ingredients can form the backbone of a vast array of delicious dishes. While I’m still determining the perfect overarching category for this innovative cookbook, my initial culinary experiments have yielded fantastic results. I recently prepared the saffron-carrot soup from the “Almond” chapter, topping it with the wonderfully textured toasted almond dukkah also featured in that section. The combination was incredibly delicious and showcased Peternell’s brilliant approach to building flavor. As a longtime admirer of Cal Peternell’s work, I’m eagerly anticipating diving deeper into this book’s pages and uncovering more of his creative ingredient pairings. Stay tuned for the saffron-carrot soup recipe – it’s a keeper!

A Common Table: From Cynthia McTernan, the talented blogger behind Two Red Bowls, comes A Common Table, a beautifully crafted cookbook that weaves together captivating stories with an eclectic mix of recipes. This collection is a heartfelt reflection of both Cynthia’s and her husband’s rich cultural and geographical roots, celebrating the diverse culinary influences that have shaped their lives. I recently had the pleasure of making the steamed scallion buns from this book, and they were absolutely delightful – soft, fluffy, and bursting with savory flavor. A Common Table is more than just a recipe book; it’s an invitation to explore a world of interconnected flavors and personal narratives, making it ideal for those who appreciate the stories behind their food.

Category #3: Baking – Sweet Inspirations for Every Occasion

Genius Desserts: For those who have followed my culinary journey, you’ll know I’m a devout admirer of Kristen Miglore and her brilliant Wednesday Food52 Genius Recipes column, which meticulously seeks out the absolute best versions of beloved dishes. Her latest masterpiece, Genius Desserts, extends this philosophy to the sweet side of the kitchen, presenting truly iconic and foolproof dessert recipes. From this exceptional collection, I’ve already delighted in making a number of recipes, including the outstanding peach cobbler with hot sugar crust and its seasonal counterpart, an apple version, both of which were met with universal acclaim. This book is a treasure trove for bakers seeking guaranteed success and truly spectacular results.

All About Cake: From the endlessly innovative and wonderfully creative Christina Tosi, founder of Milk Bar, comes All About Cake – a joyful and comprehensive celebration of, you guessed it, CAKE! This book explores cake in all its glorious forms and iterations: from quick and comforting mug cakes to slow-cooked crockpot cakes, from impressive layer cakes to charming cupcakes (if you insist!), and from crowd-pleasing sheet cakes to delightful cake truffles, among many others. I am particularly eager to try my hand at one of her iconic layer cakes, which, for those unfamiliar, are often presented “naked” or unfrosted on the sides. This distinctive style elegantly exposes the beautiful individual layers, making the cake a visual masterpiece even before the first slice is cut. It’s a must-have for any cake lover or aspiring baker looking to push creative boundaries.

Red Truck Bakery Cookbook: For those unfamiliar, the Red Truck Bakery is a beloved culinary institution nestled in rural Virginia, renowned for its heartwarming, homemade baked goods. Now, you can bring a piece of that charm into your own kitchen with the Red Truck Bakery Cookbook, featuring 85 nostalgic recipes for cookies, cakes, pies, and more, designed to make every day feel a little more delicious, from breakfast to dessert. I recently baked the apple orchard muffins with turbinado sugar crust from this book, and they were an absolute hit with everyone who tried them – perfectly moist, wonderfully spiced, and topped with a delightful crunchy crust. This cookbook is perfect for anyone who appreciates classic American baking with a touch of Southern comfort and homespun goodness.

The Cookie Book: I am absolutely loving The Cookie Book! As a dedicated cookie enthusiast, this comprehensive collection has quickly become a cherished resource. I’ve already made the snickerdoodles, which were wonderfully simple and utterly delicious – a perfect rendition of a classic. More recently, I tackled the spiced brown butter muscovado cookies. While these were not as simple to prepare, requiring a bit more effort and attention to detail, the results were unequivocally worth it. They were absolutely stunning in both appearance and flavor, boasting a complex depth of spice and rich, buttery notes. This book is a must-have for anyone who believes a good cookie can solve almost anything, offering a wide range of recipes from quick and easy to more elaborate showstoppers. Expect more updates on my cookie adventures soon!

Sister Pie: I am absolutely enthralled with Sister Pie, a cookbook that beautifully captures the essence of a beloved Detroit bakery. It’s more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a testament to community, creativity, and the power of a perfectly crafted pie. I’ve already shared a little bit about my love for this book here, where I also featured a recipe for their utterly delicious Salted Maple Pie. The recipes in Sister Pie are inventive, comforting, and approachable, making even complex-sounding creations feel achievable for the home baker. This book is a true inspiration for anyone passionate about pie, offering unique flavor combinations and a warm, inviting spirit.

Category #4: Nose-to-Tail / Sustainable Cooking – Maximizing Every Ingredient

Waste Not: I first discovered the invaluable insights of Waste Not through Margaret and her insightful podcast discussion with Top Chef star Tiffany Derry. This groundbreaking cookbook from the prestigious James Beard Foundation is far more than just recipes; it’s a direct extension of their vital “Waste Not” campaign, dedicated to anti-food waste advocacy. The book offers practical strategies and delicious recipes designed to encourage a “full use” approach to ingredients, helping home cooks significantly reduce their environmental footprint while discovering new flavors. It’s an essential resource for anyone committed to sustainable cooking and making the most of every single part of their produce and proteins.

Cooking with Scraps: I am truly loving Cooking with Scraps for its innovative and incredibly resourceful approach to cooking. This book is particularly beneficial for those who consume a lot of vegetables or avid gardeners looking to maximize their harvest and minimize waste. It features ingenious recipes that cleverly utilize often-discarded parts like banana peels, zucchini stems, whey, tomato seeds, aquafaba, pumpkin seeds, and fennel stalks. Beyond just recipes, it provides a wealth of practical tips for transforming these “scraps” into delectable dishes and useful kitchen staples, from infused vinegars and alcohols to hearty stratas and frittatas. It’s an empowering guide that encourages creativity, frugality, and a more sustainable way of cooking, proving that deliciousness can be found in every component.

Now and Again: The latest offering from the insightful Julia Turshen, Now and Again, is a testament to her belief that a complete, satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This book champions the idea that leftovers are not merely remnants but opportunities for inventive and fun new dishes, and that gathering people around the table for a shared meal is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Organized both by season and specific menu themes – such as an inviting brunch or an easygoing Thanksgiving spread – the book provides invaluable helpful tips on what can be prepared ahead of time to alleviate stress. Crucially, each menu is thoughtfully followed by a dedicated section titled “It’s Me Again,” which offers creative recipes for intelligently utilizing any leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste and new deliciousness is always just a step away.

And Last But Not Least: The Art of the Apéritif

Rebekah Peppler’s Apéritif is an exquisite guide for Francophiles and anyone eager to embrace the elegant French tradition of the pre-dinner drink. This beautifully curated book offers a sophisticated collection of recipes for both classic and modern French cocktails, alongside a delightful array of French-inspired bites and hors d’oeuvres perfectly designed to complement them. Peppler demystifies the art of the apéritif, showing how this ritual can elevate any gathering, setting a relaxed and convivial tone before a meal. Whether you’re looking to host a chic cocktail party or simply enjoy a refined drink at home, this book provides all the inspiration and instruction needed to master the effortlessly elegant French way of life, one perfectly balanced sip at a time.