The Ocean Wise Cookbook
edited by Jane Mundy (Whitecap Books, 2010)

Being an environmentally conscious shopper and cook just became a lot easier and tastier thanks to the leaders at Ocean Wise and contributing chefs. The book lists sustainable seafood choices and includes substitutions for where ever you are in the world. The delicious recipes make being an ethical consumer easy and rewarding.

The Zero Mile Diet
by Carolyn Herriot (Harbour Publishing, 2010)

It's easy to see why this book is a national best seller. The monthly guide teaches you everything you need to know about planting your own garden to grow your own organic fruits and vegetables. There are a few simple recipes, but the focus of the book is how to be completely self sufficient when it comes to your food needs for a healthy lifestyle and planet.

Odd Bits
by Jennifer McLagan (Harper Collins, 2011)

True to McLagan's style, this cookbook teaches the reader to respect the animals we eat by using every part of them. Preparing or eating cuts like head, ears, cheeks and brains may make you squeamish but the interesting recipes and meticulous instructions in this book will put your worries to rest and inspire you to try something new.

Feeding Carl
by Sylvia Davies (Sylvia Davies, 2011)

This cookbook can be a life saver (literally!) for those who have themselves or cook for loved ones with food allergies or intolerances. All the recipes in this book are dairy, egg, fish, gluten, nut, seafood, sesame, soy and refined sugar free – and believe it or not, tasty too! The dishes aren’t fancy, they’re not meant to be. For those adjusting to a new lifestyle you'll find a wealth of everyday recipes using allergy free ingredients. Order online at feedingcarl.com.

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The Spice Necklace
by Ann Vanderhoof (Anchor Canada, 2011)

Ann's recollections of her travels through the Caribbean islands are amusing, informative and teach the reader about Caribbean culture and cuisine. Although it is loaded with recipes and cooking tips she picked up during her adventures, we see this book as more of a foodie armchair read than a cookbook.

Vij’s at Home
by Meeru Dhalwala and Vikram Vij (Douglas & McIntyre, 2010)

The latest release from the renowned restaurant duo invites you into their home with a cookbook that is peppered with humour and full of charming stories. The recipes and accompanying useful tips will make Indian home cooking come as easily to you as it does to them.

Kokkari
by Erik Cosselmon and Janet Fletcher (Chronicle Books, 2010)

The stunning food photography in this beautiful book is designed to inspire you to create an edible art show in your own dining room. Pulled from the menu at the San Francisco restaurant, the recipes are written to make fine dining at home achievable for just about every cook.

Flavours of Prince Edward Island
by Jeff McCourt, Allan Williams & Austin Clement (Whitecap, 2010)

Broken down by ingredient, this cookbook has recipes for all the fresh, local foods (like mussels, lobster, potatoes and mushrooms) that P.E.I. is known for. The photography is gorgeous and the book does a wonderful job of sharing the Island's culinary history.

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The New Food Processor Bible 30th Anniversary Edition
by Noreen Gilletz (Whitecap Books, 2011)

This fourth edition of the national bestseller has been updated to reflect today’s busy and health-conscious cooks. There are over 600 recipes including 65 new recipes written specially for this edition, complete with nutrient analysis, making it a staple addition to any cookbook collection.

Short & Sweet
by Dan Lepard (Fourth Estate, 2011)

For home cooks who are looking to get back to the basics, this book is filled with concisely written recipes that explain the what, why and how's for everyday baking. The methods and techniques are explained in such a way that even the most novice baker is able to tackle a wide range of baked goods.

Modernist Cuisine
by Nathan Myhrvold with Chris Young and Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab, 2011)

Considered not just a cookbook, but a culinary revolution, this collection of six volumes has 2,438 pages and includes more than 3,200 images. The series sets out to explain the true art and science of cooking. It's a textbook for both novices and professionals who want to expand their craft and to become a better cook. It is not an inexpensive book, but industry leaders say that it's a bargain for this encyclopedic work.

Ancient Grains for Modern Meals
by Maria Speck (Crown Publishing Group, 2011)

From buying and storing to freezing and reheating grains; everything is covered, making this the perfect how-to guide for getting more grains into your daily diet. The recipes have a Mediterranean-inspired feel, are simple to follow and best of all, tasty! As a bonus, the author has included extra information in each recipe such as ingredient substitutions, variations and health tips.

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Dinner Chez Moi
by Laura Calder (HarperCollins publishers Ltd., 2011)

With this eclectic collection of menus, Laura sets out to prove that having a dinner party doesn’t need to be daunting. Delivered in a simple and sophisticated manner, the recipes range from simple to involved. With the added touch of Calder's wit, this cookbook is not only inspirational but an entertaining read as well.

Girl in the Kitchen
by Stephanie Izard (Chronicle Books, 2011)

A fun look into the life and cooking style of the first female winner of television’s Top Chef series. The flavour profiles of the recipes are sophisticated and creative but without pretension. The pages are loaded with humorous anecdotes and useful cooking tips, as well as wine and beer pairings to keep the party going.

Fabbrica
by Mark McEwan (Viking Canada, 2011)

Featuring recipes for the authentic Italian dishes served in his newest restaurant, this cookbook is surprisingly approachable for the average home cook. With a focus on fresh and good quality ingredients, the book also contains detailed tips, techniques and advice to turn your own dining table into a restaurant experience.

Get in the Kitchen and COOK! Food for Family and Friends
by Emily Richards P.H.Ec. (EmCooks, 2011)

If you want recipes you can count on, turn to Professional Home Economist and food writer Emily Richards. This cookbook features a delicious compilation of casual entertaining recipes designed to help you enjoy great food without sacrificing quality time with loved ones. Available online at www.emilyrichardscooks.ca.

Sunday Roasts
by Betty Rosbottom (Chronicle Books, 2011)

There was a time when a Sunday roast wasn’t just a special occasion but a weekly routine. For those who are starting a new tradition but may be intimidated by roasting, this cookbook features a range of simple to sophisticated recipes, tips and how-to advice. There’s even a section for sides and accompaniments, making this an all-in-one meal planner for a years' worth of Sunday dinners.

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