One day sitting in a History of Interiors course in college I heard my good friend, Ashley, use the phrase “non sexual crush” as she was talking about this cute, blonde and energetic girl in our class. I had to giggle at the phrase. I completely understood what she was saying; this girl was totally likable! She oozed with confidence, she was obviously nice and liked by all who surrounded her. This is the way I feel about Gwyneth Paltrow. She is in one of my favorite movies, Sliding Doors, She helped raise my favorite trainer to stardom, Tracy Anderson, and Hello! She was married to the lead singer of Coldplay- basically current day legends! I can’t deny that I love all things Gwyneth! I can’t afford all things GOOP, but I can vouch that her cookbooks are some of my favorites and most referenced.

My Father’s Daughter, the name alone is touching. I am my father’s daughter- as well as my mother’s no doubt. I am 50/50. By far, this is the best of her cookbooks. May I recommend the following recipes:

Slow- Roasted Tomatoes and the Slow- Roasted Tomato Soup, both versions are made each winter and enjoyed by my little ones

Turkey BLT’s with the Slow Roasted Tomatoes- yes they are THAT good and Bruce’s Dip

Best Stir Fried- Chicken and Fried Rice with Kale and Scallions

French Fries- who doesn’t love an all American favorite?

Healthier Version of Blueberry Muffins are made on a very regular basis- although her unhealthy version is delicious too

Grandad Danner’s Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies is the only cookie recipe I have mastered

It’s All Good, is more organic and natural. Both are words I would like to be more of, but to be honest, organic can be expensive and natural is not always appealing to this girl who continues to use more make up to cover her laugh lines and dark circles! Homemade is at least better than store bought. We all do what we can. The following recipes are tried and truly loved:

Sweet Potato and Five Spice Muffins

Spicy Sweet Potato Soup with Chipotle and Coriander

Chicken and White Bean Chili

Turkey and Black Bean Chili with Sweet Potatoes, yes you are seeing a pattern, what can I say?

Beet, Carrot, Apple and Ginger Juice- almost to beautiful to drink

Basic Brownie Recipe

Banana “Ice Cream”

It’s All Easy, meant for the “Super- Busy Home Cook”. Now I get what she was going for, and I am glad she attempted. This is the least used book I have by her. I won’t lie, I tend to judge a book by its cover, and this has great presentation. The recipes in this book are less appealing to my family and the ingredients are difficult to find locally. That being said, here are the recipes I would suggest:

Taquitos

Chicken Enchiladas (my kids like anything taco like)

Ginger Carrot Soup