The festive season is upon us once again, bringing with it the delightful opportunity to show appreciation for our loved ones with thoughtful gifts. Forget the frantic dashes through crowded malls; with the convenience of online shopping, you can discover truly special presents from the cozy comfort of your home. This year, I’ve meticulously curated a comprehensive holiday gift guide brimming with items that have genuinely enhanced my own life and kitchen. You won’t find any paid endorsements here for products I haven’t personally experienced. Every single item on this list, from culinary tools to comforting reads, has been personally purchased, owned, used, and loved by me. After all, if it’s not worth my own hard-earned money, why would I recommend it to you? (A quick note on transparency: While I haven’t received payment to endorse these products, some links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as a little thank-you for helping you find great gifts!).
So, whether you’re shopping for a passionate home cook, a wellness enthusiast, or someone who simply loves unique and practical items, prepare to be inspired. We’ll start by exploring some fantastic products from the Nom Nom Paleo brand, followed by an exciting array of other hand-picked holiday gift ideas that are sure to bring joy.
The Essential Cookbook: Ready or Not!
Admittedly, I’m biased, but I truly believe that our latest cookbook, Ready or Not!, is one of the most transformative gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones. This isn’t just another cookbook; it’s a culinary companion designed to make healthy Paleo home cooking effortlessly achievable, regardless of your schedule. Whether you’re a meticulous meal planner who loves to prep ahead or a spontaneous cook who needs dinner on the table in minutes, Ready or Not! offers an abundance of deliciously nourishing options. From impressive make-ahead feasts and delightful treats to ingenious leftover makeovers and lightning-fast weeknight meals, every recipe is crafted for maximum flavor and minimal stress. Our signature comic book style, complete with vibrant step-by-step photos, clear instructions, and flexible meal plans, transforms cooking into an enjoyable habit you’ll eagerly embrace.
My husband Henry and I poured our hearts and souls into every page of this book. We rigorously tested each recipe on our own family, ensuring they were not only delicious but also genuinely easy to follow. Every single one of the 2,000+ photographs was shot right in our home kitchen, reflecting the real-life cooking experience. We meticulously drew every illustration and painstakingly designed and laid out each page to create a truly immersive and user-friendly experience.
The dedication paid off, as our amazing readers quickly snapped up the entire first printing! Since its debut in August, Ready or Not! has soared to become a New York Times bestseller, and proudly hit #1 on both the Wall Street Journal and Publisher’s Weekly bestseller lists for Hardcover Nonfiction. Its excellence was further recognized when it made it to the Semifinals of Goodreads’ Choice Awards in the highly competitive Food & Cookbooks category. Most recently, Amazon celebrated it as one of the 15 best books of the year in Cooking & Wine, solidifying its place as a must-have culinary resource.
While Ready or Not! is widely available wherever books are sold—both in the U.S. and internationally—this holiday season offers a unique opportunity. We’ve partnered with our wonderful local independent bookstore, Books Inc., to provide signed and personalized copies! Imagine gifting a book with a personal note inscribed by me, tailored specifically for you or that special someone. To order your personalized copy, simply click this link and purchase Ready or Not! from Books Inc. During checkout, be sure to utilize the “Order Comments” section at the bottom to clearly state the name for the inscription. As an extra treat, I’ll even include some exclusive Nom Nom Paleo swag with your order! To guarantee delivery by Christmas, please ensure your order is placed by December 14th at 11:59 am Pacific.
Don’t miss out on this unique chance to get a signed and personalized copy from Books Inc. – order here!
(And for friends who haven’t yet discovered the delights of my first cookbook, Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans, it makes another fantastic gift for anyone embarking on a Paleo journey or simply seeking delicious, healthy recipes!)
Year-Round Culinary Inspiration: Ready or Not! Wall Calendar
If you or your loved ones adore our cookbooks, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with our 2024 wall calendar. This isn’t just a way to keep track of dates; it’s a daily dose of healthy culinary inspiration presented in our uniquely fun and engaging style. Serving as the perfect eye-catching companion to our new Ready or Not! cookbook, this calendar will motivate you to cook delicious, wholesome meals all year long. Each month features charming, cheeky cartoons and a brand-new Paleo recipe, ranging from satisfying hearty suppers to quick and easy snacks and sides. What makes this calendar truly special are the dozens of included stickers, featuring adorable cartoon versions of me and my family – yes, even Ollie’s beloved stuffed cat makes an appearance! These fun stickers are designed to keep you motivated and smiling throughout the year. Hang this vibrant calendar on your wall, and let Ready or Not! transform cooking into a joyful habit you’ll never want to break.
Purchase our inspiring calendar from Amazon here!
The Secret Flavor Weapon: Magic Mushroom Powder
For those who have yet to experience the culinary phenomenon that is my Magic Mushroom Powder, prepare for a revelation! This isn’t just a seasoning; it’s one of the most potent flavor boosters in my kitchen arsenal – an umami-packed seasoning salt that once led The Oregonian’s Test Kitchen to declare it made them “rethink everything [they]’ve been doing in the kitchen.” Magic Mushroom Powder can be effortlessly substituted for regular salt in virtually any dish, instantly adding a profound depth of flavor. From simple scrambled eggs and ground meats to roasted vegetables and succulent chicken wings, it elevates everything it touches. I always keep a well-stocked supply of Magic Mushroom Powder in my kitchen, and now you can too! For a personal touch, you can easily make it yourself using this simple recipe, making it an ideal, thoughtful stocking stuffer for your favorite foodies.
Feeling a little too busy for a D.I.Y. project this holiday season? No problem! Magic Mushroom Powder is now conveniently available in charming tins at select Whole Foods Market stores. Currently, you can find it in the NorCal Region (which also extends to Reno, Nevada) and the Northeast Region (including stores in New York, Western Connecticut, and all New Jersey stores except Marlton, Cherry Hill, and Princeton). Due to its immense popularity, my Magic Mushroom Powder has been selling out remarkably quickly, so I highly recommend calling your local store before visiting to ensure they still have some in stock at the butcher counter!
(P.S. Get ready, because Magic Mushroom Powder will be available in ALL Whole Foods Market stores starting in January! Look for the tins on the butcher counter in the New Year – it’s a game-changer you won’t want to miss!)
Show Your Nomster Pride: Nom Nom Paleo Baseball Caps
Eagle-eyed fans might have spotted my boys sporting some seriously cool Nom Nom Paleo baseball caps during our Ready or Not! Book tour and wondered, “How can I get one?” Well, the wait is finally over! You can now proudly order these fantastic caps directly from our website. This classic snapback baseball cap, meticulously crafted from a structured wool blend and featuring a durable plastic snapback closure, showcases an embroidered image of my face—yes, my actual face!—right on your forehead. There is simply no better, more stylish, or more direct way to declare your inner Nomster to the world. It’s a fun, quirky, and comfortable accessory that lets you carry a piece of the Nom Nom Paleo spirit wherever you go.
You can choose from three distinct and vibrant color combinations to match your style: yellow/black, red/black, or the striking red/white/black! Grab one for yourself or as a perfect gift for any devoted Nom Nom Paleo follower.
Your Kitchen Cheerleader: Nom Nom Paleo Vinyl Action Figure
My mission is to help you eat real, nourishing, and utterly “nomtastic” foods. And I’m willing to go to extraordinary lengths to achieve that—even if it means miniaturizing myself into an adorable action figure so I can cheer you on right there in your kitchen! Introducing Mini-Michelle, a delightful vinyl action figure designed to bring a little extra joy and motivation to your cooking space. Standing at a compact 3.5 inches tall, this charming figure features 3 points of articulation, allowing for some playful posing. She comes equipped with four fun accessories and, of course, her signature sunny smile, ready to inspire your next culinary adventure. This unique collectible makes a fantastic gift for any Nom Nom Paleo fan, or anyone who could use a tiny, smiling cheerleader to help them through their cooking endeavors!
Bring Mini Michelle home to your kitchen – purchase her here!
Alright, that’s enough about the fantastic array of Nom Nom Paleo branded merchandise! Now, let’s dive into some other incredible gift ideas that don’t happen to have my face plastered on them, but are equally loved and highly recommended.
The Kitchen Game-Changer: Instant Pots
I’ve been such an enthusiastic advocate and vocal cheerleader for Instant Pot for so long that many people mistakenly assume I’m a paid spokesperson for the brand. But here’s the honest truth: I’m not! My fervent support stems purely from my deep love for using Instant Pots to effortlessly create delicious, Paleo-friendly recipes with absolutely no fuss or mess. I genuinely want everyone else to discover the undeniable magic and convenience this incredible appliance brings to the kitchen.
While Instant Pots are celebrated as versatile multi-use cookers, capable of everything from slow cooking and sautéing to making yogurt and rice, I must confess that the electric pressure cooker function is my absolute favorite, and the one I utilize most often. And what an electric pressure cooker it is! Seriously, incorporating an Instant Pot into your kitchen routine will be a life-altering experience. It drastically streamlines the process of preparing tasty, hot food, making healthy eating more accessible than ever. It saves time, simplifies complex recipes, and consistently delivers perfectly cooked results, transforming even the most reluctant cooks into culinary enthusiasts.
I’m constantly asked to recommend my favorite Instant Pot models, so allow me to share my top picks for the perfect holiday gift:
Instant Pot IP-DUO Plus: This 9-in-1, 6-quart multi-use cooker, a newer model for 2017, offers incredible value and functionality. I previously championed the IP-DUO 7-in-1 as the best all-around choice, but this updated version surpasses it in every way. Instant Pot actively listened to user feedback, incorporating a host of improvements: adding a convenient max-fill line in the insert, re-labeling the “Manual” button to the more intuitive “Pressure Cook,” and packing in numerous new features. The IP-DUO Plus is a testament to their commitment to user experience, making it an outstanding choice for any home cook. Get yours from Amazon here!
Instant Pot Ultra: This is currently my absolute favorite, narrowly edging out the IP-DUO Plus. What makes the Ultra stand out? Its sleek, modern aesthetic, a highly intuitive central dial with turn-and-press functionality for greater precision, a clear cooking progress indicator, and a brilliant steam release reset button (a godsend for those who are a bit nervous about the escaping steam during manual pressure release). While the dial might require a slight adjustment for those accustomed to buttons, it offers unparalleled customization and control over your cooking. For serious home cooks who appreciate refined design and enhanced features, the Ultra is an investment in culinary excellence. Get yours from Amazon here!
I always make it a point to share updates whenever these incredible appliances go on sale, so keep an eye on my Instant Pot Deals page for the latest bargains. And of course, don’t forget to explore my ever-expanding collection of Instant Pot recipes for endless inspiration!
Stylish & Durable Kitchen Wear: Hedley & Bennett Aprons
Any eagle-eyed Nomsters out there know my kitchen uniform: whenever I’m cooking, I’m invariably sporting a Hedley & Bennett apron. These aprons aren’t just practical; they’re a statement of quality and style that I’ve cherished for years. My love affair with Hedley & Bennett began back in 2013 when my chef sister gifted me one for my birthday. Since then, my collection has steadily grown to eight aprons, and I have absolutely no intention of stopping! Once you experience one, you’ll understand why: each Hedley & Bennett apron is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship. They are individually handcrafted, built to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen, and made with top-grade materials and meticulous fabrication. Beyond their incredible durability, they are simply gorgeous, adding a touch of professional flair to any home cook’s attire.
My newest favorite design is the striking (PRODUCT)RED apron. Not only is it in my absolute favorite color, but it also carries a profound purpose: 25% of the retail price from each purchase directly supports (RED)’s vital efforts in fighting AIDS through the Global Fund. It’s a gift that looks great and does good.
You can purchase this exceptional apron from Amazon here!
Precision & Safety in the Kitchen: Chef’s Choice 15 Trizor XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to elevate your cooking experience is to ensure your knives are consistently sharp. When my knives are perfectly honed, cooking becomes not only faster and more efficient but also significantly safer. I invested in this exceptional home knife sharpener after growing tired of the recurring trips to professional knife sharpeners every few months. This particular model is consistently rated as the number one knife sharpener by the esteemed folks at Cook’s Illustrated, and I can wholeheartedly attest to its superior performance. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase! Within just a few minutes, all my knives—and even those of my friends—are quickly transformed, allowing us to get back to slicing, dicing, and chopping with renewed precision and ease. It’s an invaluable tool for any serious home cook, a gift that keeps on giving in terms of efficiency and enjoyment in the kitchen.
Acquire this kitchen essential from Amazon here!
Mastering Vegetable Noodles: The Inspiralizer
Have you been captivated by all those vibrant, fun vegetable noodles you’ve seen gracing your Pinterest feed and favorite recipe blogs? With a quality spiralizer, you can effortlessly create them right in your own kitchen! The market is saturated with options, and I’ve personally owned and experimented with four different brands over the years. Last year, I recommended two models, but now, one has definitively risen to the top as my absolute favorite: The Inspiralizer.
The Inspiralizer is a truly innovative tool created by Ali Maffucci, the undisputed spiralizing queen behind the popular website Inspiralized. When the expert in spiralizing invents a spiralizer, you know it’s going to be exceptional. What I particularly love about this gadget is its ingenious design: the blades are ingeniously attached directly to the unit, allowing you to effortlessly change between noodle styles with a simple twist of a dial. This eliminates fumbling with separate, sharp blades. Furthermore, its central coring blade, which securely holds vegetables in place, boasts a narrower diameter than other spiralizers. This clever design feature means you can successfully spiralize even thinner vegetables, minimizing waste and expanding your culinary possibilities. For a long time, the one minor drawback preventing my full endorsement was that it wasn’t listed as dishwasher safe. However, I happily discovered that I can safely place it on the top rack of my dishwasher, making cleanup an absolute breeze! Haven’t you been longing to try making my famous Crispy Swoodles with Bacon or perfectly tender zucchini noodles? The Inspiralizer makes it all possible.
Pick up this fantastic kitchen gadget from Amazon here!
Your Gateway to Better Sleep: Lectrofan White Noise Maker
With all the extensive travel I undertook this year for our Ready or Not! Book tour, one of my absolute highest priorities was ensuring I consistently achieved good, restorative sleep. Sleeping on the road can be incredibly challenging, especially when contending with constant time zone changes and the inevitable jetlag that follows. To combat these issues and guarantee restful nights, I always travel with two essential items: my trusty eye mask and a reliable, portable white noise maker. The necessity of a white noise machine became profoundly clear during stays in bustling metropolises like New York City or Chicago, where the incessant traffic noise and blaring honks would consistently disrupt my sleep. After extensive research into various models, I opted for the Lectrofan, and it proved to be an absolute game-changer, helping me catch those precious Zzz’s even in the noisiest environments. Its compact size means it takes up very little space in my carry-on, making it an ideal travel companion. I was so impressed with its effectiveness and soothing capabilities that I now keep it on my nightstand at home, relying on it for consistent, peaceful sleep every night. It’s truly a gift of tranquility for anyone who values their rest.
Secure yours from Amazon here!
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Food: Thermapen + ThermoPop
What makes the Thermapen Mk4 instant-read thermometer such an indispensable tool in any kitchen? It’s a culinary marvel that boasts lightning-fast readings, incredible accuracy, an intelligent backlight, and an auto-rotating display that makes it easy to read from any angle. Its motion-sensing sleep-and-wake mode is incredibly convenient, conserving battery life while ensuring it’s always ready when you need it. Plus, it just looks super cool! More importantly, integrating the Thermapen into your cooking routine means you’ll never again risk overcooking or undercooking a pricey piece of grass-fed meat or pasture-raised poultry. It’s the ultimate guardian of perfectly cooked food, ensuring optimal taste and texture every single time. Elevate your culinary game by getting one from ThermoWorks here!
However, I understand that its close-to-$100 price tag might be a significant investment for some. Luckily, the ingenious minds behind Thermapen have introduced a more affordable yet equally impressive younger sibling: the ThermoPop. This charming, lollipop-lookalike thermometer has been rated #1 by both Cook’s Illustrated and Serious Eats, so you can rest assured that its performance is top-notch, rivaling its older, pricier counterpart. While it’s not quite as blazing fast as the Thermapen (expect readings in 2-3 seconds for Thermapen versus 3-4 seconds for ThermoPop), at just $29, it offers incredible value. As I’ve always emphasized, if you’re serious about cooking meat or fish properly and safely, investing in a great thermometer is non-negotiable. The ThermoPop provides that essential precision without breaking the bank. Get yours from ThermoWorks here!
Comfort for Mind & Body: Back Jack Meditation Chairs
I first discovered the wonders of Back Jack chairs at a Paleo seminar I attended at 1440 Multiversity. It was fascinating to see several audience members, likely fresh from a morning yoga class, comfortably settling onto the floor in these sturdy, portable meditation chairs. These chairs are incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide array of activities, from serene zen practice and mindful meditation to comfortably playing video games with your kids or even just enjoying a good book on the floor. Proudly made in the U.S.A., Back Jacks come in a vibrant array of bright colors—I, naturally, chose red ones, reflecting my personal style—and are generously padded to ensure maximum comfort and support. They offer a fantastic alternative to traditional seating, promoting better posture while providing a relaxed, floor-level experience. Give the gift of flexible comfort and support this holiday season.
Acquire one from Amazon here!
Smart Storage Solutions: LunchBots Clicks Salad Containers
I absolutely adore these innovative all-stainless steel interior salad containers, a brilliant creation from my friends at LunchBots! They are truly exceptional for several reasons: they’re completely leak-proof, incredibly durable, and conveniently dishwasher safe, making them perfect for busy individuals. While they’re branded as salad containers, their utility extends far beyond just salads. As the self-proclaimed “Leftover Makeover Queen,” I find them ideal for storing all my culinary creations and precious leftovers, keeping them fresh and perfectly contained. One important tip to remember: when placing hot food into the container, always allow the food to cool down to room temperature before securely sealing the lid. Failing to do so can create a strong vacuum seal, making the container surprisingly difficult to open. Should a vacuum accidentally form, a simple trick is to gently insert a butter knife between the lip of the container and the lid to allow air to enter, releasing the seal. Easy peasy! These containers are a fantastic gift for anyone committed to meal prepping, packing lunches, or simply organizing their fridge with style and sustainability.
Get one from Amazon here!
(P.S. If you’re on the hunt for an excellent insulated container with an all-stainless steel interior to keep food hot or cold, I highly recommend grabbing a LunchBots Thermal! It’s another fantastic product for on-the-go meals.)
Audio Excellence: Marshall Acton Bluetooth Speaker
Music is an integral part of our family life, especially in the kitchen. We love to gather and listen to our favorite tunes while cooking and enjoying meals together. And when the kids are at school, you’ll often find me happily blasting my favorite podcasts as I tinker with new recipes and experiment with flavors. The Bluetooth speaker that serves as the heart of our audio experience is the exceptional Marshall Acton Bluetooth Speaker. It consistently delivers fantastic sound quality, filling our kitchen with rich, clear audio. Beyond its superb performance, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable; it looks exactly like a cool, mini-version of the various Marshall amps that my son Owen has scattered around the living room for his electric bass and guitar. It’s a stylish piece of equipment that blends seamlessly into any decor, perfect for music lovers, podcast enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates quality sound with a touch of vintage rock ‘n’ roll flair. Give the gift of superior audio and stylish design this holiday season.
Get this outstanding speaker from Amazon here!
Comfortable & Unique Footwear: Vibram Furoshiki Wrap Shoes and Boots
Let’s be clear: I am by no means a fashion plate, and you’ll certainly never find me posting my #ootd (outfit of the day) on Instagram. However, when it comes to comfortable, minimalist footwear, I have a clear favorite: my Vibram Furoshiki Wrap Shoes. These shoes are not only incredibly comfortable, providing a unique “barefoot” feel, but they also offer a distinct advantage over other minimalist options – they don’t feature the “weirdo five fingers” design that some people find off-putting. Instead, you simply wrap them around your feet, and the ingenious design makes them look like beautifully tied presents. It’s a truly unique and stylish aesthetic that always garners compliments. Just be vigilant when purchasing to ensure you don’t accidentally buy a knock-off; stick to genuine Vibram products for the authentic experience. Give the gift of unparalleled comfort and unconventional style this holiday season. Get a pair from Amazon here!
(For those colder months, I absolutely swear by the cozy boot version. They offer the same comfort and unique wrap-around design, providing warmth and style during winter. Buy a pair from Amazon here!)
A Culinary Masterpiece: Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat
This is, without a doubt, my favorite new cookbook of the year (that wasn’t written by me, of course!). Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, authored by the brilliant chef, teacher, and culinary mastermind Samin Nosrat, is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a groundbreaking educational resource that empowers cooks of all levels. Beautifully complemented by the charming and whimsical illustrations of Wendy MacNaughton, Samin joyfully guides readers through the profound impact of the four fundamental elements of cooking—salt, fat, acid, and heat. Her approach demystifies cooking, teaching you to master these core principles rather than simply following instructions. This extraordinary book is designed to inspire cooks to make confident, intuitive decisions in the kitchen, freeing them from rigid recipe reliance. With the knowledge gained from Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, you’ll be able to whip up delicious, balanced meals anytime, utilizing whatever ingredients you have on hand, transforming you into a truly resourceful and creative cook. It’s an instant classic and an essential addition to any culinary library.
Secure this classic from Amazon here!
Pure Joy in Print: Naptime with Joey
This book brings me SO. MUCH. JOY. Seriously, if you’re not already following @lauraiz on Instagram, you are missing out on an endless stream of pure delight. The premise is brilliantly simple and utterly adorable: when her precious daughter, Joey, settles down for a nap, Laura transforms her into miniature pop culture icons. From a tiny Salt Bae to Barb from Stranger Things, each meticulously crafted costume and setup results in a heartwarming and often hilarious photograph. Just a quick scroll through these photos on my phone instantly lifts my spirits and puts me in a sunny mood. Laura’s first book, Naptime with Joey, is a beautiful compilation of these incredibly cute photos, made even better with their cleverly punny captions. It’s a book that’s guaranteed to elicit smiles, giggles, and endless “awws.” This is the perfect feel-good gift for new parents, grand-parents, or anyone who simply appreciates heartwarming creativity and a good laugh.
Get your dose of joy from Amazon here!
Escapist Reading at Its Best: Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy
My closest friends know that I’m not typically a fiction reader. Cookbooks and celebrity gossip magazines are usually my literary indulgences, and I’m perfectly happy with that! However, despite my usual aversion to fiction, this year I found myself completely captivated by Kevin Kwan’s Crazy Rich Asians trilogy. I not only bought all three books but devoured them at an astonishing pace. These captivating novels intricately chronicle the intertwined, often outrageous, lives of three ultra-wealthy Chinese families, offering a delightful blend of sharp humor, tantalizing gossip, and high-stakes soap opera-level shenanigans. I haven’t stayed up late reading a fiction series since I was engrossed in Armistead Maupin’s The Tales of the City series back in college, but these three books had me burning the midnight oil, eagerly turning pages into the wee hours. In fact, I’m still feeling a bit of post-series moping now that the trilogy has concluded. The good news, however, is that I have the highly anticipated Crazy Rich Asians motion picture to look forward to next summer! (Spoiler alert for my fellow Nomsters: one minor character in the books surprisingly follows a Paleo diet! I literally gasped out loud when I read that part!). This trilogy makes an excellent gift for anyone looking for a fun, escapist read filled with glamour, intrigue, and wit.
Begin your journey into this fascinating world by getting the first book, Crazy Rich Asians, here!
Continue the saga with the thrilling sequel, China Rich Girlfriend, available here!
And conclude the unforgettable series with the final book, Rich People Problems, accessible here!
There you have it – my carefully curated picks for this year’s ultimate holiday gift guide! Now that your holiday shopping is brilliantly done and dusted, you can confidently step away from your computer. Go enjoy something truly fun and meaningful! (Or at least something significantly more enjoyable than battling crowds at your local big box store at midnight on Black Friday.) Wishing you a joyous and stress-free holiday season filled with wonderful moments and even more wonderful gifts!
Searching for more delicious and healthy recipes? Explore my extensive Recipe Index. You’ll also discover a wealth of exclusive recipes on my iPhone and iPad app, and within the pages of my bestselling cookbooks: Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2013) and Ready or Not! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2017)! Happy cooking!