| Who has time to cook these days? Most of the time, I come home at 8 or later and eat lunch meat and oranges for dinner. But, for those rare nights when I have the patience and energy to throw something together, these books have been lifesavers. Instructions 'The Naked Chef Takes Off' All the Naked Chef books are great, but this is my favorite. His recipes are easy to follow and fairly foolproof. Once you master the risotto, you are set for life. 'How to Eat: The Pleasures and Principles of Good Food' Amazing ideas from the original domestic goddess. Some of these recipes are really more like delightful anecdotes, related in the way that my friends and I exchange cooking ideas (i.e., more like shopping lists than actual recipes). Nigella has never pointed me wrong; these recipes are hard to mess up. 'Seriously Simple: Easy Recipes for Creative Cooks' The name says it all. Great ideas for weeknight dinners. Tools 'Henckels Pro S 8-Inch High Carbon Stainless Steel Chef's Knife' You'll need a good knife. The chef's knife is the most versatile. 'Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 2-1/2-Quart Shallow Saucepan with Lid' One pot 'Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Lid' One pan And you're set! |