Lulu Goldsworth’s 100 Healthy Recipes for the 21st Century is a vibrant, thoughtful, and delightfully practical cookbook that manages to strike a balance between nutritious eating and mouthwatering flavor. With a clear passion for healthy cooking, Goldsworth introduces readers to creative, modern recipes and refreshing twists on classic favorites, all while keeping health at the center of each dish.
One of the first things that stands out is the author’s commitment to flavor innovation. Take, for instance, her unique take on Avocado Toast—a dish that’s been popularized in countless cookbooks. Goldsworth elevates it by adding crisp cucumber and a burst of citrus with orange and lime juice, bringing an unexpected brightness that sets it apart. Similarly, her Caesar Salad with Parmesan is a go-to staple, yet it becomes a versatile dish with the option of adding salmon, chicken, or steak, which makes it both adaptable and satisfying.
Goldsworth does an excellent job weaving in nutritional value throughout the book. Dishes like the Salmon and Spinach Salad offer more than just a tasty meal—they provide vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, supporting the book’s health-conscious mission. Her Grilled Salmon is another standout for those seeking heart-healthy omega-3s.
Soups and snacks also get thoughtful attention. Several light, low-calorie soups are featured, ideal for those wanting comfort food without the heaviness. A particular highlight is the Banana Bread, made with coconut oil, vanilla, and maple syrup. It’s so indulgently good that, as the reviewer noted, it’s easy to eat a whole loaf in a single sitting.
Desserts and snacks are not neglected either. The Dark Chocolate Bark, studded with mixed nuts and dried fruit, is a decadent-yet-healthy treat that embraces cocoa’s antioxidant properties. Meanwhile, the beverage section, with customizable Iced Tea, offers a refreshing finish to any meal.
Goldsworth expands her reach by incorporating various dietary needs. Vegan dishes like Cauliflower Fried Rice and gluten-free options such as Almond Flour Pancakes and Cassava Bread provide inclusive choices. Her Low-Carb and High-Protein chapters, while catering to specific diets, are presented with flexibility and sensitivity to different eating preferences, especially for those who may be cautious about meat intake.
Busy cooks will appreciate the “Quick and Easy” section, filled with recipes that can be made in 20 minutes or less—perfect for weeknights. Likewise, the “Budget Friendly” chapter is a gift for those navigating high grocery prices, featuring filling meals like Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce that don’t break the bank.
Adding an international flair, Goldsworth includes recipes like Chicken Tikka Masala in the global cuisine section, and finishes with festive offerings in the “Holiday Recipes” chapter, which includes classics like Turkey and Lamb Chops.
Overall, 100 Healthy Recipes for the 21st Century is more than a cookbook—it’s a celebration of good food made with care and purpose. Goldsworth empowers home cooks of all experience levels to eat well, explore new flavors, and maintain a balanced diet in today’s fast-paced world.
