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Seven Spoons: My Favorite Recipes For Any and Every Day, Tara O’Brady

A food blogger turned author, Tara O’Brady shares stories and recipes from her Canadian home as delightful to the eyes as they are to the tastebuds. A smart book for your coworker, cousin, or best gal pal who spends hour after hour in the kitchen.

A Lot On Her Plate: A New Way to Cook For Two, A Few, or Plenty, Rosie, Birkett

A perfect gift for your newly cohabitating friend, this book offers an approachable look at above-basic cooking. The best part? The book takes time into account, getting you in and out of the kitchen as quickly as possible!

The Sprouted Kitchen Bowl and Spoon: Simple and Inspired Whole Foods Recipes to Savor and Share, Sara Forte

A clear choice for anyone hoping to have a healthier 2016, this second book from the James Beard Award–nominated author finds us once again intrigued and inspired to get cooking, combining fresh ingredients in ways we haven’t–yet.

Make It Ahead: A Barefood Contessa Cookbook, Ina Garten

Every host, both during the holidays and beyond, needs this book. Anyone who has ever found herself spending more time in the kitchen during a party than she does with her guests could use a lesson or two in make-ahead recipes that are scrumptious time-savers.

French Feasts: 299 Traditional Recipes for Family Meals and Gatherings, by Stephane Reynaud

Part cookbook, part textbook, French Feasts is anything but a classic approach to French cuisine–but you’ll find plenty of recipe classics within. With fun surprises at every page turn, this is perhaps the most crowd-pleasing book on our list, provided that crowd loves to cook!

Nopi, by Yotam Ottolenghi

Unsurprisingly, this latest effort from Ottolenghi and team is an instant essential for anyone with a kitchen. As always, the book hits everything right, offering up recipes that are both unexpected and inspiring. This one’s a must.

Gielina, by Travis Lett

Cookbooks born of buzzworthy restaurants are always sure to please, and Gielina proves that. Featuring 125 recipes, and over 150 photos by Michael Graydon, we’d be thrilled to spot this beauty under the tree.

Fire + Ice: Classic Nordic Cooking, Darra Goldstein

As enticing for its photography as it is for its recipes, Fire + Ice takes you on a Scandinavian voyage through food. Dishes traditional in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden are all present, and inspiring. Don’t be shocked if your next vacation destination is inspired by a photo or two in here.

My New Roots: Inspired Plant-Based Recipes for Every Season, Sarah Britton

This cookbook crafted by a healthy eating blogger is a must-give gift for your most beloved vegetarian. Gorgeous photos, inspired recipes, and a health-conscious focus at its core will make this book a delight to dive into in the new year.

Friends Food Family, Essential Recipes, Tips, and Secrets for the Modern Hostess, from Liberty London Girl, Sasha Wilkins

Anyone craving a book that’s both a good read and a real approach to entertaining will no doubt appreciate these wise words from Wilkins, who takes into account the realities of hosting and pairs them with scrumptious recipes she cooks for her own guests.

Thug Kitchen Party Grub: For Social Motherf*ckers, Thug Kitchen

This second release from the hysterically funny Thug Kitchen team does not disappoint. Focusing on eating healthy, even while we party, this book elevates options well above the snack variety. You might want to leave this one on the coffee table during the party as well, as it’s sure to spark a laugh or two.

Mina Stone: Cooking For Artists, Mina Stone

It’s not just a clever title. Mina Stone has been cooking fresh, seasonal lunches in artist Urs Fischer’s Brooklyn-based art studio for years, and has now compiled her favorite dishes into one standout collection.