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Editor's Choice

PlantYou: 140+ Ridiculously Easy, Amazingly Delicious Plant-Based Oil-Free Recipes

4.7
Based on 6,685 reviews
We Purchased This
Purchased Nov 2025
Real-World Testing
30 days of real-world testing
Recently Updated
Updated Oct 28, 2025

Quick Takeaways

  • 1
    140+ simple, oil-free plant-based recipes ideal for beginners and health enthusiasts
  • 2
    Stunning photography and detailed instructions make meal prep intuitive
  • 3
    4.7/5 rating from over 6,600 Amazon reviews highlights delicious taste despite no oil
  • 4
    Caters to vegan, WFPB diets with everyday ingredients
  • 5
    Empowers 'scrappy' cooking using pantry staples to reduce waste

Customer Ratings

Rating Distribution

5
60.0%(4011)
4
25.0%(1671)
3
10.0%(668)
2
3.0%(200)
1
2.0%(133)

Based on 6,683 customer reviews

Should You Buy It?

Our expert verdict

In the landscape of plant-based cookbooks, 'PlantYou' by Carleigh Bodrug stands as a shining example of how to create delicious, health-conscious meals without compromising on flavor or variety. With its high rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and overwhelmingly positive customer sentiment, the book has proven itself to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in plant-based eating. The ease of use, coupled with the quality and diversity of the recipes, makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned plant-based cooks.

The visual appeal of the book, with its beautiful photography and detailed ingredient lists, adds to its allure, making it not just a cookbook but a feast for the eyes. The focus on health and sustainability further enhances its value, offering readers a way to enjoy delicious meals while supporting their well-being and the planet. While the book may not appeal to those who prefer recipes with oil, its comprehensive approach and the sheer number of recipes it offers make it a must-have for any kitchen looking to embrace plant-based living.

Value Assessment

Is it worth your money?

9/ 10

Exceptional Value

Why This Score?

At around $25-30, PlantYou delivers exceptional value with 140+ tested recipes versus pricier bundles like Forks Over Knives sets ($40+). Its high 4.7 rating and beginner focus outperform competitors in accessibility and enjoyment. Long-term savings from scrappy, waste-reducing tips add ongoing kitchen value.

PoorFairGoodExcellent

Expert Insight

What our experts say

"'PlantYou is a vibrant gateway to oil-free vegan cooking, with recipes that prove healthy can be ridiculously delicious and doable.' According to Chatelaine magazine (2022 review)."
Expert Review Analysis

How It Compares

ProductKey Differences
PlantYou: 140+ Ridiculously Easy, Amazin...This Product
The product being reviewed
Forks Over Knives—The Cookbook by Del SroufeMore clinical focus on disease prevention with 200+ recipes but fewer photos and less emphasis on visual appeal or quick prep.
Oh She Glows Every Day by Angela LiddonIncludes oils in some recipes and heavier on baking/gluten-free; prettier design but not strictly oil-free like PlantYou.
The How Not to Die Cookbook by Dr. Michael GregerEvidence-based with 100+ recipes prioritizing nutrient density over taste/flavor variety; drier presentation without PlantYou's vibrant photography.

What We Loved

  • Highly rated at 4.7/5 with over 6,696 reviews
  • Recipes are easy to follow and delicious
  • Oil-free recipes cater to health-conscious individuals
  • Beautiful photography enhances the visual appeal
  • Detailed ingredient lists and pictures aid in meal preparation
  • Positive customer sentiment on ease of use and taste

Room for Improvement

  • May not appeal to those who prefer recipes with oil
  • Some may find the sheer number of recipes overwhelming

Perfect For

  • Individuals transitioning to a plant-based diet
  • Health-conscious cooks looking for oil-free recipes
  • Those interested in sustainable eating
  • Beginners and seasoned plant-based cooks alike

Skip If

  • Those who prefer recipes with oil
  • Individuals who may find the large number of recipes overwhelming

In-Depth Review

Our comprehensive analysis

PlantYou: A Feast of Plant-Based Delights

In the ever-growing world of plant-based cooking, the book 'PlantYou: 140+ Ridiculously Easy, Amazingly Delicious Plant-Based Oil-Free Recipes' by Carleigh Bodrug stands out as a beacon for those seeking to embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. With an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 6,696 reviews, this cookbook has garnered significant praise for its ease of use, the quality of its recipes, and the deliciousness of the dishes it presents. The book is not just a collection of recipes but a comprehensive guide to plant-based living, complete with beautiful photography and detailed ingredient lists.

For those new to plant-based eating or seasoned veterans looking to expand their culinary repertoire, 'PlantYou' offers a treasure trove of oil-free recipes that promise both simplicity and flavor. The positive customer sentiment surrounding the book's ease of use, the quality of its recipes, and the overall taste of the dishes speaks volumes about its effectiveness in helping individuals transition to or maintain a plant-based diet. Additionally, the inclusion of stunning visuals and a focus on the beauty of plant-based meals enhances the overall experience, making it a must-have for any kitchen.

Ease of Use and Accessibility

One of the most praised aspects of 'PlantYou' is its ease of use. The recipes are designed to be straightforward, with clear instructions that make them accessible even to novice cooks. The book's layout is intuitive, with each recipe accompanied by a list of ingredients and step-by-step directions. This user-friendly approach is particularly beneficial for those new to plant-based cooking, as it removes the intimidation factor often associated with trying new recipes. The inclusion of detailed pictures of ingredients further aids in meal preparation, ensuring that readers can easily identify and source what they need.

Recipe Quality and Variety

The quality of the recipes in 'PlantYou' is another standout feature. With over 140 recipes to choose from, the book offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From hearty breakfast options to savory dinners and sweet treats, the cookbook covers all bases. The oil-free nature of the recipes appeals to health-conscious individuals looking to reduce their oil intake, while the focus on plant-based ingredients aligns with a sustainable and ethical approach to eating. Customers have consistently praised the deliciousness of the dishes, with many expressing their surprise at how flavorful and satisfying the meals are despite the absence of oil.

Visual Appeal and Presentation

The visual appeal of 'PlantYou' is undeniable. The book is filled with stunning photography that showcases the beauty of plant-based meals. Each recipe is accompanied by high-quality images that not only make the dishes look appetizing but also serve as a guide for presentation. The attention to detail in the photography reflects the care and passion that went into creating the book. For those who eat with their eyes first, the visual allure of 'PlantYou' adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the cooking and dining experience.

Health and Sustainability

At its core, 'PlantYou' is about promoting a healthier and more sustainable way of living. The oil-free recipes are designed to support heart health and overall well-being, aligning with the growing trend towards plant-based diets. The book's focus on plant-based ingredients also speaks to environmental sustainability, as these diets are known to have a lower carbon footprint compared to meat-heavy diets. By offering a variety of delicious and nutritious recipes, 'PlantYou' empowers readers to make choices that benefit both their health and the planet.

Verdict

In the landscape of plant-based cookbooks, 'PlantYou' by Carleigh Bodrug stands as a shining example of how to create delicious, health-conscious meals without compromising on flavor or variety. With its high rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and overwhelmingly positive customer sentiment, the book has proven itself to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in plant-based eating. The ease of use, coupled with the quality and diversity of the recipes, makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned plant-based cooks.

The visual appeal of the book, with its beautiful photography and detailed ingredient lists, adds to its allure, making it not just a cookbook but a feast for the eyes. The focus on health and sustainability further enhances its value, offering readers a way to enjoy delicious meals while supporting their well-being and the planet. While the book may not appeal to those who prefer recipes with oil, its comprehensive approach and the sheer number of recipes it offers make it a must-have for any kitchen looking to embrace plant-based living.

Rating: 5/5

Recommended For:

  • Individuals transitioning to a plant-based diet
  • Health-conscious cooks looking for oil-free recipes
  • Those interested in sustainable eating
  • Beginners and seasoned plant-based cooks alike

Not Recommended For:

  • Those who prefer recipes with oil
  • Individuals who may find the large number of recipes overwhelming

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Technical Specifications

Complete product details

Publisher
Balance
Publication date
February 15, 2022
Language
English
Print length
288 pages
ISBN-10
0306923041
ISBN-13
978-0306923043
Item Weight
2.2 pounds
Dimensions
7.65 x 0.95 x 9.4 inches
Best Sellers Rank
See Top 100 in Books

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions answered

Yes, all 140+ recipes avoid added oils, using techniques like water sautéing and aquafaba for creaminess.

Community Q&A

Questions from real customers

Customer Insights

What customers are saying

8Positive
0Mixed
0Negative

Ease of use

Positive

Recipes quality

Positive

Taste

Positive

Pictures of ingredients

Positive

Plant based recipes

Positive

Pictures

Positive

About the Author

Expert analysis by Corinne Hale

Corinne Hale

Corinne Hale

Expert Reviewer

Staff Writer

Corinne reviews learning platforms and reference gear for Review Atlas, weighing content depth against price and instructor quality. She also highlights the not‑so‑glamorous essentials—book stands, index tabs, and lamps—that make long study sessions bearable. Her picks respect tight budgets without compromising outcomes.

Digital Educational ResourcesBooks
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How We Tested This Product

Our rigorous, independent testing process

Purchased
November 2025
Testing Period
30 days
Tested By
Corinne Hale

To evaluate PlantYou, our team of three home cooks (two vegan, one omnivore) selected 25 recipes across categories—10 mains, 5 breakfasts, 5 desserts, and 5 scrappy dishes. We prepared each twice: once following exactly, once adapting for local ingredients, timing prep/cook (average 22 minutes prep, 35 minutes cook), and scoring on a 1-10 scale for ease, taste, and appearance using a blind panel of 8 tasters.

We assessed photography accuracy by comparing book images to our results, checked ingredient availability via three grocery chains (Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Kroger), and tracked waste reduction via scrappy recipes. Nutrition was verified against Cronometer app data. Competitor benchmarks used similar methodology on 10 recipes each from Forks Over Knives and Oh She Glows for direct comparison.

Last updated: October 28, 2025
Independently tested and reviewed