Today’s review is of the once-in-a-while kind: about a cookbook. I jumped at the chance to review Giada De Laurentiis’s latest cookbook because I generally like her recipes and ideas. I mean, who doesn’t love Italian food!?
The good news is, this is not just another Italian cookbook. Giada has included a great variety of healthy and indulgent recipes combining Italian roots and modern flavors.
My favorite thing I’ve tried from this cookbook so far is the recipe for Pumpkin Ginger Chocolate Muffins. With bits of candied ginger and a bittersweet chocolate glaze, they were a perfect snack when I was craving something sweet, with the added bonus of “healthy” ginger and pumpkin.
My finished Pumpkin Ginger Chocolate Muffins
I liked the recipe variations or possible substitutions included in some of the more complex recipes. For instance, there are 2 recipes for Chicken Parmesan: one a stuffed version, one a “skinny” version with less cheese and no breadcrumbs. Recipes that are gluten free, vegetarian, or vegan are noted with a small mark and are easy to spot.
The notes from Giada in the cookbook add a very personal touch. The layout and design has a vibrant feel with bright colors and easy-to-read text.
Thank you to Blogging for Books and Crown Publishing for the complimentary review copy.
The Green Mockingbird 