Welcome to the ultimate guide for thoughtful gifting! As you meticulously craft your list of presents for friends, family, and cherished loved ones, consider this your essential resource. Our meticulously curated 2020 Holiday Gift Guide (updated for timeless appeal and continued relevance) is brimming with our absolute favorite discoveries and trusted essentials from the past year. From innovative kitchen gadgets that simplify culinary adventures to inspiring cookbooks that ignite creativity, and even unique items that simply infuse daily life with a little more joy, this selection is designed to delight. Dive in and find that perfect something that will truly resonate.
The spirit of giving is always in season! While recent years have presented their unique challenges and encouraged us all to spend more time within our homes, the opportunity to bring warmth and happiness to those we care about remains constant. Loyal Nomsters know that each year, I dedicate myself to compiling a truly epic holiday gift guide. This isn’t just any list; it’s a collection of items I’ve personally purchased, rigorously tested, and unequivocally endorse. You won’t find any sponsored content or freebies here – every single recommendation comes from genuine love and practical experience. This commitment means you can shop with confidence, knowing that if it doesn’t meet my high standards, it simply won’t make the cut. In fact, many beloved items reappear from previous guides, a testament to their enduring quality, reliability, and sheer usefulness.
Given that many of us, and our loved ones, have embraced a more home-centric lifestyle, the gifts featured in this guide are carefully chosen to enhance comfort, boost productivity, and spark joy within the sanctuary of their own spaces. Whether they’re perfecting their culinary skills, optimizing their home office, or simply seeking moments of peace and relaxation, these gifts are designed to make life a little more enjoyable for everyone.
Exceptional Gifts for Culinary Enthusiasts and Home Chefs
For those who find their happy place in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes or perfecting old favorites, this selection of high-performance kitchen gadgets and tools is bound to inspire. From time-saving appliances to essential cooking accessories, these gifts are designed to elevate any culinary journey.
Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus: The Ultimate Multi-Cooker
As a devoted Instant Pot enthusiast for many years, I’ve had the pleasure of using numerous models. However, the one I consistently purchase for myself and enthusiastically gift to all my friends is the incredibly versatile 6-quart Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus. This isn’t just a kitchen appliance; it’s a culinary game-changer, renowned for its ability to whip up delicious meals in a fraction of the time. Its popularity stems from its unparalleled efficiency and ease of use, making it a staple for busy weeknights and ambitious weekend projects alike. Prepare to transform your cooking experience with this powerful kitchen workhorse.
Here are just a few compelling reasons why this particular Instant Pot model stands out as the absolute best, offering significant upgrades and user-friendly features that enhance every cooking session:
- Enhanced Venting System: Experience quick and effortless pressure release, a crucial feature for precise cooking and immediate serving.
- Innovative Stay-Cool Handles: The inner pot is designed with handles that remain cool to the touch, ensuring safer and easier removal, even when hot.
- Flat-Bottomed Inner Pot: This thoughtful design not only promotes superior browning for richer flavors but also allows the inner pot to be used seamlessly on various other cooktops, adding to its versatility.
- Intuitive Digital Interface: Programming your Instant Pot has never been simpler, thanks to an improved, user-friendly interface and a clear digital display that makes navigating settings a breeze.
While an 8-quart model might seem appealing for larger quantities, I find that the 6-quart size is perfectly sufficient for most families and cooking needs. If you occasionally require more capacity, consider the smart solution of acquiring two 6-quart Instant Pots – it offers greater flexibility than a single, larger unit. Elevate your kitchen arsenal with an Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus (or perhaps a pair!) by securing yours here.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Braiser: A Kitchen Essential
Beyond its striking aesthetic appeal, the Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Braiser is an indispensable workhorse in my kitchen, a testament to its exceptional quality and functionality. This robust and elegantly designed piece of cookware is not only a joy to behold but also a dream to cook with. Its enameled surface ensures effortless cleaning, while its superior heat retention and distribution make it perfect for a wide array of cooking tasks, from searing and shallow frying to slow cooking and, of course, braising. The generous size is particularly ideal for preparing substantial meals, like a giant stir-fry, ensuring ample leftovers for easy meal prep throughout the week. I personally own both the 3.5-quart and 2.25-quart braisers, but I consistently find myself reaching for the larger one, appreciating the bounty of extra portions. Invest in a lifetime of delicious cooking by purchasing one here.
Breville Smart Oven Air: The Versatile Countertop Companion
The Breville Smart Oven Air has earned its place on my perennial gift list thanks to its outstanding performance and remarkable versatility. This isn’t just a countertop oven; it’s a multi-functional culinary powerhouse capable of baking, roasting, dehydrating, and air frying a multitude of dishes with impressive precision. While it may require a bit more effort to clean compared to my dedicated Phillips Air Fryer, the expansive capacity and sheer breadth of cooking functions offered by the Breville Smart Oven Air make it an undeniable winner in my book. It effortlessly handles everything from a quick batch of crispy fries to a slow-roasted chicken, making it an invaluable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who love to experiment. Discover its capabilities and purchase one here.
Thermapen Mk4: Precision Temperature for Perfect Cooking
Achieving perfectly cooked meat isn’t about elaborate pan sauces or complicated marinades; it boils down to two fundamental principles: proper seasoning and precise temperature control. The quickest, most accurate, and utterly reliable way to ensure your proteins reach their ideal doneness is with the undisputed champion of thermometers: the Thermapen Mk4. Its lightning-fast readings and exceptional accuracy eliminate guesswork, guaranteeing succulent, safe, and perfectly textured results every single time. This tool is a game-changer for any home cook looking to elevate their skills and confidence. Master the art of perfectly cooked meats by acquiring yours here.
Chef’s Choice Trizor XV Select Electric Knife Sharpener: Essential for Safety and Efficiency
Ask any professional chef, and they’ll confirm that the most crucial tool in any kitchen is a sharp knife. Not only does a keen edge make slicing, dicing, and chopping tasks significantly easier, but it also drastically improves safety by preventing slips and reducing the force required for cuts. The Chef’s Choice Trizor XV Select Electric Knife Sharpener is an indispensable device that will ensure all your blades remain in impeccable, razor-sharp condition. This powerful and efficient sharpener effortlessly restores the edge to dull knives, transforming your cooking experience and making every meal preparation a pleasure. Keep your kitchen safe and efficient by purchasing one here.
Zulay Milk Frother: A Small Tool with Big Impact
Sometimes the most impactful gifts are the simplest and most affordable ones. This inexpensive yet remarkably effective Zulay Milk Frother is a perfect example. It’s an absolute gem for effortlessly blending up a dreamy Iced Matcha Latte, creating silky smooth foamed milk for your coffee, or rapidly whisking collagen powder into your favorite hot beverages without any lumps. Its compact size and powerful performance make it an ideal stocking stuffer or a thoughtful little luxury for any beverage enthusiast. Elevate your daily drink routine by purchasing one here.
Whynter ICM-201SB Upright Automatic Ice Cream Maker: Crafting Homemade Delights
For those who dream of perfectly churned frozen treats, the Whynter ICM-201SB Upright Automatic Ice Cream Maker is an absolute must-have. Last summer, I decided to elevate my homemade ice cream game, and this epic machine has been a revelation. It effortlessly produces incredibly creamy and intensely flavorful ice creams, sorbets, and gelatos, whether you’re working with traditional dairy bases or crafting delicious non-dairy alternatives. The integrated compressor means no pre-freezing is required, allowing for spontaneous creation of cold desserts whenever the craving strikes. Indulge in the joy of homemade ice cream by acquiring one here.
Breville Oracle Espresso Maker: The Home Barista’s Dream
For the true coffee connoisseur, the Breville Oracle Espresso Maker represents the pinnacle of home brewing. While undeniably a significant investment, its ability to craft cafe-quality espresso and lattes at home makes it an unparalleled splurge. No other item in our household brings more consistent daily happiness to our resident coffee aficionado, Henry. This sophisticated machine automates the most challenging parts of espresso making – grinding, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing – allowing even a novice to pull perfect shots with ease. It’s an experience, not just a cup of coffee. Treat someone (or yourself!) to the ultimate coffee luxury by purchasing one here.
The Original Phin Kit (Filter + Coffee): An Accessible Coffee Ritual
Seeking a more budget-friendly yet equally awesome coffee experience? Our brilliant Operations Manager at Nom Nom Paleo World Headquarters, Angelina Hong, highly recommends The Original Phin Kit. This elegant and portable Vietnamese coffee kit promises a perfect, rich brew in just about 5 minutes, transforming your morning routine into a mindful ritual. A fantastic bonus? It produces zero paper waste, making it an eco-conscious choice for the planet-aware coffee lover. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who appreciates a unique and robust coffee flavor. Grab one of these delightful kits here.
Diaspora Co. Single Origin Pragati Turmeric: Spice Up Your Pantry
Both Angelina and I are absolutely captivated by the vibrant, electric orange turmeric sourced from Diaspora Co., a phenomenal woman-run spice company. Diaspora Co. isn’t just about selling spices; they are on a mission to disrupt and decolonize an outdated commodity spice trading system, channeling money, equity, and power directly into the hands of Indian farmers. Without a doubt, they offer the best-tasting, freshest, and most ethically sourced turmeric available on the market. Its incredible flavor and potent color make it a staple in my kitchen, perfect for enriching my Golden Milk, adding a nutritional boost to my Golden Glow Smoothie, and bringing authentic depth to dishes like my Instant Pot Atakilt Wat. Discover this incredible turmeric (and explore their other amazing single-origin spices) by shopping here.
Beautiful Tableware: Elevate Every Meal
For me, beautiful tableware isn’t merely a backdrop for our food photography; it’s a source of daily joy and an essential element in elevating the dining experience. Collecting unique pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and a pleasure to eat from is a passion. These handcrafted plates, platters, and bowls transform every meal, whether a simple weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, into a special occasion. If you’re looking to gift something truly memorable that adds elegance and character to any home, consider these exceptional sources for exquisite tableware:
- Heath Ceramics: Handcrafted in California since 1948, every item from Heath Ceramics evokes a sense of timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship. Their minimalist yet warm designs are truly heart-eye emoji-worthy.
- Miya Company: Have you admired the stunning blue and white plates frequently featured in my food photos? These exquisite pieces come from Miya Company, a family-run business based in New Jersey and a premier importer of authentic Japanese tableware and gifts. Their selections offer a blend of tradition and modern elegance.
- Notary Ceramics: I stumbled upon this charming little shop while exploring the vibrant Sellwood neighborhood in Portland, Oregon, and immediately fell in love with their exquisite minimalist handmade products. Their collection embodies simplicity, artistry, and refined beauty, perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance.
- No Crumbs Left: Teri and her dedicated team have created a delightful range of fun, durable, and wonderfully whimsical statement pieces. These unique items are designed to showcase all your kitchen creations with flair and personality, adding a playful yet sophisticated touch to any table setting.
Thoughtful Gifts for Enhancing the Work-From-Home Experience
As remote work and learning have become integral parts of our lives, creating an efficient, comfortable, and healthy home environment is more important than ever. These carefully selected gifts are designed to support productivity, improve well-being, and make the daily grind of working from home significantly more enjoyable for anyone on your list.
Apple AirPods Pro: Silence and Clarity for Home Productivity
In a world where many households juggle remote work, online learning, and various activities simultaneously, effective communication and focus are paramount. The Apple AirPods Pro have become an absolute lifesaver for every member of our family. These sophisticated wireless Bluetooth earbuds offer exceptional audio quality and, most importantly, a brilliant noise-canceling feature that is a true game-changer, especially when sharing tight quarters. This allows for uninterrupted concentration during important Zoom meetings or focused study sessions. Furthermore, the customizable ear tips ensure a secure and comfortable fit for all-day wear. Gift the power of focus and crystal-clear sound by purchasing a pair here.
Miady LED Desk Lamp Eye-Caring Table Lamp: Brighten Your Virtual Presence
In today’s remote work landscape, looking your best during video conferences and Zoom meetings is more important than ever. The Miady LED Desk Lamp Eye-Caring Table Lamp offers an incredibly affordable yet highly effective solution. This versatile lamp features a flexible gooseneck, allowing you to direct light precisely where it’s needed, whether for reading, working, or illuminating your face for video calls. With three distinct color modes and four adjustable levels of brightness, you can easily customize the lighting to suit any task or ambient condition, ensuring you always present yourself clearly and professionally. Enhance any home office setup with this practical and eye-caring lamp by purchasing one here.
Blueair Blue Pure 121 Air Purifier: Breathe Easy at Home
Clean air is fundamental to health and comfort, especially when spending extended periods indoors. The Blueair Blue Pure 121 Air Purifier proved to be an absolute lifesaver during periods of severe air quality due to wildfires on the West Coast, when opening windows was simply not an option. Its minimalist design belies its powerful effectiveness in removing airborne pollutants. We now utilize these stylish and highly efficient purifiers year-round in our larger living spaces. They excel at eliminating persistent cooking odors and significantly alleviating allergy symptoms, creating a noticeably fresher and healthier indoor environment. Gift the invaluable comfort of clean air by purchasing one here.
Levoit Air Purifier: Compact Clean Air for Personal Spaces
Extending the benefit of clean air to personal spaces, the Levoit Air Purifier is an ideal solution for bedrooms or smaller rooms. To ensure the air remains consistently clean and fresh where it matters most, I’ve placed one of these compact yet remarkably effective air purifiers in each of our bedrooms. Its quiet operation ensures undisturbed rest while diligently removing allergens, dust, and odors, contributing to a more restorative sleep environment. This thoughtful gift demonstrates care for well-being and enhances the comfort of personal retreats. Secure one for every bedroom (or desired small space) by clicking here.
Gifts Designed for Ultimate Relaxation and Wellness
In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and prioritizing self-care is more essential than ever. This selection of gifts focuses on fostering relaxation, promoting comfort, and encouraging a sense of zen. From cozy apparel to innovative wellness tools, these items are perfect for anyone looking to unwind, de-stress, and cultivate a more balanced lifestyle.
The Comfy: The Wearable Blanket Sensation
Last Christmas, every single member of our family received their very own The Comfy, and it quickly became our unofficial uniform for cozy days spent at home. Imagine the best aspects of a plush, oversized blanket merged with the warmth and practicality of a hoodie – that’s The Comfy! It’s the ultimate garment for lounging, reading, or simply staying warm on a chilly day, providing unparalleled comfort and snuggliness. This ingenious invention is perfect for anyone who loves to feel perpetually wrapped in a warm embrace. Give the gift of supreme coziness by purchasing one here.
Allbirds Wool Loungers: Eco-Friendly Indoor Comfort
For sustainable comfort that doesn’t compromise on style or practicality, the Allbirds Wool Loungers are an exceptional choice. These are Henry’s absolute favorite indoor slippers, and Ollie loves his pair just as much. Crafted from soft, breathable, and responsibly sourced merino wool, they provide incredible warmth without overheating. Their lightweight design makes them feel almost like walking on clouds, and crucially, they are machine washable, ensuring easy care and long-lasting freshness. These loungers are the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates thoughtful design, natural materials, and everyday comfort for their feet. Get a pair of these wonderfully sustainable slippers here.
Nayoya Acupressure Mat: Natural Pain and Stress Relief
While the Nayoya Acupressure Mat might initially resemble a medieval torture device, I can enthusiastically assure you that I absolutely adore it! This innovative prickly pad harnesses the principles of acupressure to provide profound relief from stress and back pain. By lying on the mat for approximately 20 minutes each night, the carefully designed spikes stimulate pressure points across the body, promoting circulation, releasing endorphins, and fostering deep relaxation. It’s a fantastic, non-invasive way to unwind after a long day and soothe tired muscles. Offer the gift of natural pain relief and relaxation by purchasing one here.
FeetUp Inversion Chair: Empowering Yoga and Inversion Practice
For years, I’ve aspired to improve my handstand skills and incorporate more inversion into my fitness routine, which is precisely why I invested in a FeetUp Inversion Chair. This ingeniously designed yoga chair makes a wide range of inverted postures – such as headstands, shoulder stands, and various yoga poses – safely accessible to everyone, regardless of their current strength or balance level. It provides stable support, allowing you to experience the numerous benefits of inversions, including improved circulation, stress reduction, and spinal decompression, without placing pressure on your neck. I personally enjoy flipping upside down daily and always feel invigorated afterwards! Empower someone to discover the joy and benefits of inversions by purchasing one here.
Star Wars The Child Animatronic Edition: The Cutest Companion
For fans of all ages, the undeniable charm of “The Child” (affectionately known as Baby Yoda) from Disney+’s smash-hit series The Mandalorian has captured hearts worldwide. Our family, deeply enamored with this adorable character, began a playful collection of Baby Yoda figures this year. Among them, the Star Wars The Child Animatronic Edition stands out as our absolute favorite. Its magic lies in its interactive nature: it not only moves with lifelike gestures but also emits those irresistibly cute cooing sounds that melt hearts. This animatronic figure brings a piece of the Star Wars galaxy right into your home, offering endless delight and a truly engaging experience for any fan. Bring home this enchanting character by getting one here.
Beloved Cookbooks: Inspiration for Every Palate
A cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a gateway to new culinary adventures, a source of inspiration, and a treasured companion in the kitchen. For the home cook, the aspiring chef, or simply anyone who enjoys delicious food, a thoughtfully chosen cookbook makes an exceptional and enduring gift. Our selection includes personal favorites that promise to expand horizons and bring joy to the table.
Nom Nom Paleo Cookbooks and iOS App: Our Culinary Creations
While I admit to a certain bias, I genuinely believe that the cookbooks Henry and I have poured our hearts into creating are among the best you’ll find. They are not just collections of recipes; they are comprehensive guides designed to empower your entire family to cook delicious, healthy meals with confidence, offering smart shortcuts and invaluable tips to achieve culinary success. Each book is packed with vibrant photography, clear instructions, and our signature playful style, making healthy eating both accessible and exciting. We truly believe they will help transform your kitchen into a hub of deliciousness and ease.
Click on the links below to explore and purchase our celebrated culinary resources:
- Nom Nom Paleo: Food For Humans: Our award-winning debut cookbook, a vibrant and fun introduction to healthy, delicious paleo cooking.
- Ready or Not! 150+ Make-Ahead, Make-Over, and Make-Now Recipes from Nom Nom Paleo: Perfect for busy lifestyles, this book offers incredibly flexible recipes for every occasion, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- ¡Estás Listo o No! (Spanish edition of Ready or Not!): The beloved flexibility of Ready or Not! now available for Spanish-speaking audiences.
- Nom Nom Paleo iOS app*: A two-time Webby Award winner, offering an interactive and constantly updated collection of our most popular recipes and exclusive content.
*If you’ve recently acquired a new iPhone and encounter any unusual behavior with the app, such as missing recipes or glitches, a simple solution often resolves the issue: delete the app from your device and then redownload it for free from the App Store. This usually ensures you have the latest version with all features intact.
Yohanis Gebreyesus’s Ethiopia: Recipes and Traditions from the Horn of Africa
My profound love for Ethiopian cuisine runs deep, and Yohanis Gebreyesus’s Ethiopia: Recipes and Traditions from the Horn of Africa is a truly gorgeous cookbook that encapsulates the full breadth and richness of this vibrant culinary tradition. It’s an immersive journey through the diverse flavors and aromatic spices of Ethiopia, presented with stunning photography and captivating stories. A wonderful bonus for health-conscious cooks is that a significant number of the recipes are naturally paleo-friendly and entirely gluten-free, making it accessible to a wider audience while still delivering authentic taste experiences. This book is a celebration of culture and flavor, perfect for adventurous cooks. Discover its treasures here.
Nik Sharma’s The Flavor Equation: The Science of Great Cooking Explained in More Than 100 Essential Recipes
I am an immense admirer of Nik Sharma’s work, and his second cookbook, The Flavor Equation: The Science of Great Cooking Explained in More Than 100 Essential Recipes, is an absolute masterpiece. This beautifully photographed and incredibly accessible cookbook artfully combines the art of cooking with the fascinating science behind flavor. Nik has a unique talent for subtly integrating complex food science principles into his recipes, allowing home cooks to understand *why* certain combinations and techniques work, leading to consistently delicious results. It’s a truly educational and inspiring resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of taste and elevate their culinary creations. Unlock the secrets of flavor by getting a copy here.
Alex Snodgrass’s The Defined Dish: Whole30 Endorsed, Healthy and Wholesome Weeknight Recipes
If you’re gearing up for a January Whole30, or simply seeking to incorporate more healthy, wholesome, and flavor-packed meals into your routine, Alex Snodgrass’s The Defined Dish: Whole30 Endorsed, Healthy and Wholesome Weeknight Recipes is the cookbook you need. Alex’s talent lies in creating effortlessly amazing recipes that are both incredibly delicious and completely compliant with Whole30 principles. Her approach ensures that healthy eating never feels restrictive or boring, infusing every dish with excitement and robust flavor. This cookbook will be an invaluable companion for keeping your health journey engaging and immensely satisfying. Discover her fantastic recipes by ordering the book here.
Seeking More Thoughtful Gift Inspiration?
If you’re still on the hunt for that perfect present or simply want to explore a broader range of ideas, we’ve got you covered. The world of gifting is vast and exciting, and sometimes a little extra guidance can make all the difference. Explore these additional resources for more curated selections and creative suggestions to delight everyone on your list:
- Explore My Comprehensive Amazon Shopping Page: Dive into my Amazon shopping page here, a constantly updated treasure trove filled with all my favorite things, beyond what’s highlighted in this guide. You’ll find everything from kitchen essentials to home goods and wellness products, all personally vetted and loved.
- Revisit Previous Holiday Gift Guides: Discover timeless favorites and explore different categories by checking out our previous highly popular holiday gift guides. Each year brings new discoveries and enduring classics, ensuring a wealth of ideas. Explore the guides from 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016 for even more inspiration!
- Get Creative with DIY Homemade Edible Gifts: For a truly personal and heartfelt touch, consider crafting delicious homemade edible gifts. These thoughtful presents are often cherished even more for the effort and love put into them. Explore these tasty ideas for fantastic recipes that are perfect for gifting during the festive season.
No matter what you choose, remember that the most meaningful gifts are those given with love and consideration. Happy gifting!
Always on the lookout for fresh and exciting recipe ideas? Make sure to head on over to my comprehensive Recipe Index, where you’ll find a vast collection of delicious and healthy meal inspirations for every occasion. Additionally, don’t miss out on exclusive recipes and convenient cooking tools available on my award-winning iPhone and iPad app. For even more culinary adventures and in-depth guides, explore my best-selling cookbooks: Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2013), Ready or Not! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2017), and our latest sensation, Nom Nom Paleo: Let’s Go! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2021), which promises even more delightful recipes and kitchen wisdom.