Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking, a Review

Jodi Moreno’s Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking is a refreshing departure from the often lackluster cookbooks flooding today’s market. As a James Beard–nominated chef, Moreno brings a vibrant, indulgent, yet approachable energy to her collection of comfort recipes that celebrate life’s simple pleasures. From the moment you open the book, its beautifully designed pages and comprehensive index—a rarity in modern cookbooks—draw you in. Every recipe is accompanied by a stunning photograph, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one.

 

What sets this book apart is Moreno’s knack for reinventing familiar dishes with unexpected twists. The pickle-brine sheet pan chicken with capers, red onion, and dill is a standout, its bold flavor combination will no doubt provide a “toothsome” experience that lives up to its intriguing title. Similarly, the broccoli with feta, almonds, and lemon, inspired by her boss’s obsession, is a simple yet sophisticated dish that delivers on both taste and ease. As a broccoli enthusiast, I found this recipe to be a delightful addition to my repertoire.The shrimp scampi with tomato rice is another gem—elegant enough for company, yet straightforward for novice cooks. Moreno’s Golden Salmorejo, a yellow tomato gazpacho, is a must-try for summer, especially for those growing their own yellow tomatoes, like me. Her take on potato leek soup, enhanced with crispy potatoes and leeks, challenges even the most confident home cooks to rethink a classic. The book’s variety ensures there’s something for every taste, budget, and skill level, from indulgent butter-laden dishes to lighter, feel-good options. 

 

Moreno’s playful organization, with sections like “Pasta Parties” and “Long Leisurely Gatherings,” invites readers to embrace cooking as a joyful, communal experience. Her love for bold ingredients—crème fraîche, juicy tomatoes, mounds of parmesan—shines through, creating recipes that balance decadence and nourishment. Simple Pleasures is a cookbook that feels personal, thoughtful, and inspiring, making it a must-have for anyone who cherishes quality, creativity, and the art of cooking.Get your copy here.

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