If you want to cook like Ina, it might be easier than you think. Over the years, she’s generously offered her personal recommendations in interviews, on television, and on her Barefoot Contessa website.
Ina is famous for her non-fussy approach to creating delicious dishes in the kitchen, and for acknowledging that there are plenty of times when “store-bought is fine.” This gift list is just as down-to-earth as the cookbook author herself. The best part? Her picks range from condiments to cookware, so there’s something for every budget.
A beautifully arranged gift basket filled with treats and soaps.
(towfiqu ahamed via Getty Images)BOLA Granola
Ina says she and her husband, Jeffrey, often finish dinner with a delicious dessert of yogurt, fruit, and BOLA granola. She has also mentioned that the gourmet granola makes a great host gift. BOLA Granola is vegan, gluten-free, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and packed with ingredients like almonds and pumpkin seeds.
Rao’s Homemade Marinara
Rao’s Homemade Marinara tastes so fresh and flavorful that it’s hard to believe it comes from a jar. It’s no surprise then that Ina has gone on the record to declare it’s her favorite jarred marinara sauce. In an interview with Bon Appétit, the chef said, “I think you can spend the entire day making good marinara sauce, or you can buy Rao’s Marinara sauce, which I think is just fantastic. It’s great for lasagna. It’s great for pasta. It’s great for putting together a really fast dinner.”
Le Creuset Cast Iron Dutch Ovens
On the Ask Ina section of her website, Ina said she uses Le Creuset #26 Dutch ovens, adding that they’re “great for soups, stews, and braising.” Le Creuset is the gold standard for Dutch ovens – known for vibrant hues and quality you can pass from one generation to the next. In recent years, they’ve become a status symbol among home chefs.
De Cecco Pasta
A good sauce deserves good pasta, and De Cecco is one of the brands Ina trusts most. She highlights it on her Barefoot Contessa website because it cooks to a consistent al dente texture and holds sauce beautifully. The ridges and firmness make it a gift for foodies, especially when it’s arranged in a basket with Ina’s favorite pasta sauce.
Cento San Marzano Tomatoes
Cento San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their intense flavor that brings natural sweetness and depth to soups, sauces, and braises. It’s no wonder Ina lists them on her website since they provide a strong foundation for cooking without requiring long hours of simmering. A few cans tucked into a gift basket can lead to gourmet meals with less effort.
Maille Whole Grain Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard plays a role in many of Ina’s dressings and marinades. She recommends Maille whole-grain Dijon, which adds brightness, texture, and rich flavor to even the simplest recipes. A small jar can elevate charcuterie platters or gift baskets of gourmet goods like cheese, salami, and artisan breads.
All-Clad Cookware
All-Clad stainless cookware is a staple in Ina’s kitchen. She says, “They are expensive, but if you take care of them, they will last a lifetime.” The pans heat evenly and clean easily. This is a gift that will be treasured for decades.
Le Saunier De Camargue Fleur De Sel
Using the finest ingredients elevates your entire dish. Le Saunier De Camargue Fleur de sel is one of Ina’s finishing touches. It adds a delicate texture and enhances the sweetness of baked goods, and can also be sprinkled on top of meats, soups, sauces, and salads. A small container lasts a long time and elevates everyday cooking. It’s also recommended by the Barefoot Contessa herself.
Fran’s Chocolates
Ina has posted about her love of Fran’s Chocolates on her website and social media. She often chooses Fran’s salted caramels. She says she often brings these artisan sweets as hostess gifts.
Valrhona Cocoa Powder
Ina says Valrhona Cocoa Powder is the secret to her legendary Beatty’s Chocolate Cake recipe. The cocoa is deep, fragrant, and balanced, and perfect for cakes, cookies, and puddings. It makes a sophisticated gift for your favorite baker.
John Boos Cutting Board
A John Boos cutting board is one of the classics recommended by the Barefoot Contessa. Prized for their weight, grain, and craftsmanship, they transform an often overlooked kitchen accessory into something indispensable.
Tate’s Bake Shop Cookies
Ina uses Tate’s Bake Shop chocolate chip cookies in her recipe for Mocha Chocolate Ice Box Cake. The crisp and buttery cookies are thin enough for layering in recipes, but let’s face it, they’re pretty great on their own.
Olio Santo Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olio Santo is the olive oil Ina has used for years. She explains in an Ask Ina response that it is “flavorful, fruity, and not heavy.” It elevates everything from simple salads to roasted vegetables into a luxurious dish.
Dallis Bros Coffee
Ina starts her mornings with Dallis Bros Ellis Island Blend and often gives it as a gift when she’s invited to dinner in someone’s home. It is smooth, balanced, and aromatic, making it a perfect gift for coffee lovers.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillets
In Food Network video clips, Ina says cast-iron skillets are the secret to getting the perfect sear on burgers and irresistible dishes like lemon-roasted chicken. On her website, she recommends Lodge cast-iron skillets. They hold heat beautifully and become more seasoned with every use. For cooks who appreciate durability, they are indispensable.
Wüsthof knives
Ina says every chef should have quality knives. Wüsthof knives are her favorite. In fact, she has said they are the only knives she will use in the kitchen. Like her favorite cookware, it’s a gift that will last a lifetime.
Dining and Cooking