Happy Black Friday, everyone!
Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, we can focus all of our attention on Christmas. I’m one of those that can really only focus on one holiday at a time – you will not see a single Christmas decoration in our house until December 1st, at least!
I’ve put together a list of my favorite kitchen items as we gear up for the season of gift-giving. If you, your mom, your sister-in-law, or your best friend loves cooking and being in the kitchen, you’re all going to love these items just as much as I do! Some things are total investment pieces, and others are fun and useful knickknacks.
I’ve included applicable recipes that I use each item for, and you can click each picture to see more details on Amazon. Great thing is, they have a ton of deals this time of year! Check them out and let me know – what are your favorite kitchen gadgets?
I hope you find something you’ve been looking for! Enjoy!
1. KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Mini Food Processor
Everyone needs a good mini food processor. Great for making hummus and other dips, even falafel. I like the size of this one because it’s easy to store in our small kitchen, but it definitely does not lack in the power department. I like how the cord wraps into the base of the processor, which again adds to the easy storage ability. There are quite a few pieces that come apart to clean, but they are easy to hand wash and put back together.
Recipes I use it for: Homemade Falafel Patties, Black Bean Avocado Hummus, Homemade Oven Roasted Tomato Sauce
2. KitchenAid 3-Speed Hand Blender
Having a hand blender has been so fun for making creamy soups. I haven’t experimented with the different attachments yet, but the standard immersion blender is so easy to use and so powerful. It’s also really easy to clean! Just watch your fingers while cleaning the blade.
Recipes I use it for: Slow Cooker Vegetarian Tortilla Soup
3. KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer
A good hand mixer is essential – you want one that can stand up to some pressure, and not fall apart. This one was on our wedding registry, and it is so powerful. It can beat through potatoes with ease, and whip up cream cheese in no time for any kind of dip or icing. Definitely worth it!
Recipes I use it for: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, Buffalo White Bean Dip
4. KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer
This is definitely a splurge item, but I love it for making pizza dough! This was a wedding gift from my brother and sister-in-law, and I am obsessed with it. I hope to add some fun attachments soon (pasta maker, anyone?). A great must-have item for a wedding registry.
Recipes I use it for: Easy Homemade Pizza Dough
5. Microplane Fine Grater
This fine hand grater is great for zesting lemons and limes, and also for “mincing” garlic cloves! I think Rachael Ray taught me the tip of using a hand grater for garlic – genius! I’ve had this for well over 5 years (at least 6 or 7!) and I toss it in the dishwasher frequently, with no issues whatsoever.
Recipes I use it for: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili, Pesto Ricotta Stuffed Shells
6. OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener
This can opener has changed my life in such a major way. It takes a little getting used to, but you won’t ever go back! I don’t think I even know how to use a regular can opener any more. It creates smooth edges on the can and the lid, so you don’t have to worry when you toss them in the recycling. No rusted metal can injuries in our household!
Recipes I use it for: Slow Cooker Vegetarian Tortilla Soup, Black Bean Enchiladas with Creamy Green Chile Sauce
7. Simply Calphalon Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set
This cookware set is amazing. I’ve had it for about 4 years now, and everything is still like new, despite some considerable use! I use at least one piece every day! I wanted nonstick because it is SO much easier to clean. Just be sure to hand wash it – it’s not meant for the dishwasher. I’ve never had any problems with stuck on food, and have seen no signs of rust on any of the pieces. Great investment, especially for newlyweds!
Recipes I use it for: Spinach and Mushroom Risotto, Veggie Fajita Quesadillas
8. Calphalon Signature Nonstick Grill Pan
This pan is great for “grilling” indoors. Sometimes it’s too chilly, or dark, or rainy to grill outside – but why should you have to sacrifice your meal? I love nonstick cookware, and this pan is no exception. Easy to clean, and no sign of rust in sight.
Recipes I use it for: Grilled Artichoke with Garlic Herb Mayo
9. 6-Quart Cook N’ Carry Crockpot
The BEST slow cooker I’ve ever used! The locks on each side really secure the lid on top of the crock, which I think really helps maintain a steady cooking temperature and steam level during the cook time. I don’t travel much with it, but I would trust it in the backseat of my car if I had to. I can’t tell much of a difference between the HIGH and LOW heat settings, but I’ve learned what works.
Recipes I use it for: Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese, Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, Slow Cooker Veggie Lasagna
10. 6-Quart Instant Pot
This is the only thing on this list that I don’t currently have in my kitchen, BUT I WANT IT SO BAD! It’s a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and steamer all in one! Plus, it’s programmable. HELLO! I can’t wait to try this mac & cheese recipe from Pinch of Yum, where you can cook pasta noodles in 4 minutes!
11. Portion Perfect Meal Prep Containers
I am always on the lookout for great plastic containers. I love ones with different sections, so you can have a little variety in your packed lunches. It also makes it easy to watch your portions! These ones are also great because the lid is SUPER secure – no leaking whatsoever!
12. Casabella Sink Sider
I’ve been looking for something to tidy up our kitchen sink area, and this is just the ticket. The sponge that comes with it is kind of worthless, but I fill up the pump with dish soap and place my scrubber in the caddy, so I’m ready to tackle the dishes anytime!
13. OXO Good Grips Multi Grater
I always preach the idea of shredding your own cheese – it is SO much better that pre-shredded! It melts more smoothly and evenly, because pre-shredded cheese has an outer coating that keeps it from sticking together in the bag. Well, it also keeps it from melting evenly! This grater was given to me as a gift, and I use it ALL the time! The no-slip grips are great on the bottom, and also on the top handle area. Also, you can just toss it in the dishwasher when you’re done!
14. Now Designs Utensil Crock, Ivory
I wanted a large utensil crock to hold all of our spatulas, and this fit the bill exactly. It’s made of metal, so it’s easy to wipe clean. It’s also large enough to hold everything I need it to!
15. OXO Good Grips Large Silicon Flexible Turner
Seriously my favorite spatula ever. We use it on the stove, on the grill, or to flip things in the oven. I never have to worry about it melting, and it is so nonstick that it is a breeze to clean!
