There’s something especially comforting about a good cookbook – the kind that inspires you to get back into the kitchen, try something new, and share it with the people you love. Three standout releases caught our attention, each offering its own take on what it means to cook and connect. From Cherie Metcalfe’s bold and flavourful Seasoned, to Hetty Lui McKinnon’s fresh and thoughtful Linger, and Sarah Pound’s practical yet delicious Family Food, these books are full of inspiration for every kind of cook – whether you’re feeding a crowd, cooking for family, or simply making something beautiful for yourself.
Seasoned by Cherie Metcalfe – A Celebration of Food, Mood, and the Magic of Simple Gatherings
If there’s one thing Cherie Metcalfe does beautifully, it’s reminding us that food isn’t just fuel – it’s connection, comfort, and creativity all wrapped into one. Her latest cookbook, Seasoned, is the kind that fits around busy schedules, shared meals, and moments that bring people together.
Much like her earlier Pepper & Me creations, Cherie’s recipes are full of flavour without the fuss. Seasoned takes things a step further, offering hearty winter warmers that make you feel cocooned inside on a cold evening, alongside vibrant summer dishes that beg to be shared outdoors. There’s a lovely honesty to her approach: practical, unfussy, and grounded in the idea that food should be joyful, not stressful.
The book itself is gorgeous – every page feels like an invitation to slow down, pour a glass of wine, and cook something delicious. Whether you’re making her Crispiest Juiciest Pork Belly for a Sunday family lunch or tossing together a fresh, zingy salad for a weeknight dinner, Seasoned gives you permission to enjoy the process, not just the result.
While many recipes use her Pepper & Me seasonings, Cherie thoughtfully offers alternatives, so you don’t need to own them all – though it’s certainly a good excuse to stock up on a few additional favourites.
Cherie’s signature style – that balance of approachable recipes with a chef’s flair for bold flavours – makes this a cookbook you’ll actually use. It’s modern, comforting, and deeply Kiwi in spirit, rekindling your love for the kitchen and reminding you that the best meals are the ones that bring people together.
Try these recipes from Seasoned:
Beef Spinach Potato Curry
Bacon and Egg Pie
Linger by Hetty Lui McKinnon – Food, Friends, and the Art of Slowing Down
If you love fresh, flavour-packed food with a focus on connection, Linger by Hetty Lui McKinnon is one to add to your collection. Known for her cult classic Community, Hetty has always had a way of turning simple vegetables into meals that feel both comforting and creative – and Linger continues that tradition beautifully.
What began as a simple idea – inviting friends over to share salads – soon became a monthly gathering. The guest list was ever-changing and spontaneous, but many returned time and again. To “linger” suggests a reluctance to leave, and Hetty’s gatherings embodied exactly that: an easy, unhurried atmosphere that encouraged everyone, including her, to relax and enjoy the moment.
The recipes reflect that same sense of warmth and community. Some salads are hearty enough to stand alone as a main meal, while others are lighter – perfect alongside another salad or a good piece of bread.
Each dish feels doable and down-to-earth, celebrating fresh, seasonal produce with Hetty’s signature flair for balance and texture.
A lovely touch in Linger is the addition of QR codes linking to curated playlists – one for each section of the book. Created by Hetty’s daughter, these songs add another layer to the experience, inviting you to enjoy music while you cook, eat, and, of course, linger.
This is more than just a salad book. It’s a celebration of friendship, food, and those moments we wish could last just a little bit longer.
Family Food by Sarah Pound — Fuss-Free Meals the Whole Family Will Love
When it comes to fast, fresh, family-friendly food, Sarah Pound really delivers. As the creator of Wholesome by Sarah and the bestselling cookbook of the same name, she’s built a strong following of home cooks who love her practical, flavour-packed approach. Her latest cookbook, Family Food, continues that winning formula with more than 80 recipes designed to make weeknights a breeze.
Sarah understands what it’s like to cook for a busy household – she’s a trained nutritionist and a mum herself – and it shows in every page. The recipes are simple without being boring, and healthy without feeling restrictive. Think speedy pastas, hearty one-pan bakes, satisfying salads, and plenty of lunchbox inspiration. She even includes base recipes with clever variations, making it easy to mix things up depending on what’s in your fridge.
So far, I’ve loved creating her Linguine with Lemon, Garlic & Chilli Prawns – Sarah’s go-to dinner party dish, and it’s easy to see why. The One-Pan Chicken & Leek Pie is pure comfort food, while the Pork Chop Tray Bake with Potatoes & Brussels Sprouts offers that perfect sweet-and-sour hit. And for something sweet, the Salted Caramel Slice is every bit as rich and gooey as it sounds.
The recipes are clearly set out, the ingredients are accessible, and the photographs are beautifully styled – making you want to cook straight away.
If you’re looking for a cookbook that’s practical, inspiring, and genuinely family-friendly, Family Food deserves a place on your kitchen bench. It’s fresh, fuss-free, and fabulous.
Try these recipes from Sarah’s cookbook:
Sri Lankan Chicken Curry
Sticky Pork with Bok Choy Udon Noodles
Braised Beef with Potato Gratin
