You wouldn’t exactly expect a self-help book from chef Richard Blais, but surprisingly, the new cookbook he and his wife, Jazmin, have just published is kind of self-helpy. “Plant Forward: 100 Bold Recipes for a Mostly Healthy Lifestyle” (October 2023, Victory Belt Publishing) reflects the healthy lifestyle the Blais family follows. While “Plant Forward” suggests a vegetarian or even vegan collection of recipes, it does include some recipes with animal proteins. But the emphasis in “Plant Forward” is on healthy eating — or as Blais said, “healthier” eating. And the recipes are delightful. I spent some time chatting with the Blaises and got some insights into how they developed the book and the rationale behind the ingredients they use. Check it out in my new story for The San Diego Union-Tribune Food section.