As my username implies, I love to read books about two things: food and history. And as someone who reads books the way other readers read novels, I devour and soak myself into the information and soul of the book. It's not just a cookbook; it's about a way to change our lives for the better in every aspect of our human nature: mind, body, soul, and spiritually. It's beautifully written and in a way that made me step back and look at how my life can be improved, not just nutritionally but again spiritually. I had a hard time putting this book down and would love to get a physical copy so I can bookmark a few of my favorite passages to reflect on as often as possible.

I would absolutely love to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.

From the first (exceptionally styled) photo of the author’s hands holding onions and greens I was smitten with Mind, Body, Spirit, Food by Nicki Sizemore. This book is a compilation of recipes and meditations to help the reader find more enjoyment in preparing meals. I love the clever chapter titles in this book, such as “soothe” for soups, stews, and bowls. This exactly captures that food is more than a bowl full of amino acids and vitamins, it has a deeper meaning and feeling for us than just the physiologic nourishment it provides.

The author’s story is very relatable, especially when she mentions getting dinner on the table feeling like a race and her feeling like an out-of-shape jogger. As a dietitian I work with many patients and clients that struggle with the “what’s for dinner?” problem and this author makes it feel like she gets it and is here to help. Her encouragement truly comes through in her encouraging the reader to make recipes their own and adapt as needed. I appreciate how she discussed focusing on how she wanted to feel when cooking as a way to help her be more intentional, see cooking as a form of self-care, and find enjoyment in preparing meals. Her BESTT acronym is genius and has already helped me relax and enjoy cooking more.

This book would be great for anyone that wants to release some of the mental burden and stress that comes along with meal planning and preparation. The emphasis of this book is on connection and not perfection which makes getting dinner on the table feel more doable. I like this “stopping to smell the basil” style approach. This book would also be great for anyone that follows a gluten-free or vegetarian diet as all of the recipes are gluten-free and many include options to make the meals vegetarian. This book would be helpful for anyone that is interested in meal prepping as many recipes can be prepared in advance to help set you up for success throughout the week.

I love when cookbooks offer truly innovative recipes and this book delivers! The recipes I am most excited to try are the Almond Flour Muffins, Chocolate Date Nut Bark, Whipped Ricotta Dip with Roasted Mushrooms, Creamy Kale Salad, Sheet Pan Parm (Chicken & Eggplant for me!), Giant Sheet Pan Panzanella Salad with Tomato and Za’atar, Crispy Cheese Baked Quesadillas, Mole Rubbed Grilled Tacos, Bulgogi Bowls (the photo at the beginning of the book looks incredible!), Coconut Cilantro Satays with Peanut Sauce, and Crispy Quinoa Cakes.

This book feels like much more than a cookbook. I love the photography, food and prop styling, and color palette used throughout this book. The imagery and design feel very cohesive with the themes of connection, calm, and intention. I am sure you’ll find more peace, as I have, by reading this book!