How we put this together
We have not cooked from specific cookbooks for this guide, so we do not name favorites or rank titles. Instead, this page explains what to look for. Cookbooks are not medical products. Read how we research products.
A good cookbook gives you reliable weeknight meals, not just recipes that look nice. If you are cooking with less added fat, these are the signs of a book that will actually get used.
What to look for
- Nutrition information per serving, including total fat and serving size, so you can compare recipes. The FDA says 5% Daily Value or less per serving is low and 20% or more is high.
- Lighter cooking methods such as baking, grilling, poaching and steaming, as the NHS recommends.
- Everyday ingredients you can find in a regular grocery store.
- Clear, short recipes, with times and quantities.
- Authors with relevant credentials, such as registered dietitians or culinary professionals with a nutrition background, rather than extreme claims.
- Realistic promises. Be cautious about books that claim to cure or fix a condition. No cookbook can.
- Preview pages. Check the sample on Amazon to see whether the recipes appeal to you.
Where to start
Browse options
Lower-fat everyday cookbooks
A search for lower-fat cookbooks. Check the preview, the author and the nutrition information before you buy.
- Look for per-serving nutrition information
- Check the author's background
- Read the sample pages
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Browse options
Cookbooks by registered dietitians
Cookbooks written by dietitians often include practical tips and nutrition information.
- Check publication date
- Look for simple ingredient lists
- Compare print and e-book editions
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Free recipes first
You can get a lot done before buying a book. Our recipes and meal ideas cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and meal prep, and the free printable meal planning guide helps you organize them.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.