We live in a house that was built in 1905. When we moved in, it had been rental property since the 2nd World War. Everything needed renovating—but that meant we got to design our kitchen! It’s not a big space, so we had to decide what the most important tools were to have at our disposal. After all of these years working in kitchens, I have a good idea of the basics you need and what is really great to have, if you have the extra room!
Below are my suggestions for the items and brands I recommend. To view or purchase them, just select the item name and it will take you to an Amazon page for more details. Check back often as I will add to this list as I find new gadgets to share with you!
Messermeister Avanta 3-Piece Pakkawood Starter Set
You must have a few decent knives. A big kitchen knife and a paring knife are the bare essentials. This is the set we have in our kitchen and we just love them!
Cuisinart Food Processor, Pro Custom 11 Cup
I have always had a food processer and I don’t want to be without one, if I can help it! In thirty years I have only had 2 Cuisinart food processors so I recommend them since they are such a workhorse, and last forever. This one is on sale right now!
Kitchen Aid Tilt-Head Stand Mixer 4.5 Quart
Are you a baker? The most important tool in your kitchen might be a Kitchen Aid mixer. They also last forever, which is why I recommend them.
Set of 4, 10 Inch Non-Skid Lazy Susan Organizers
Lazy Susans. I call them the roundy rounds. I have them in my cupboards and one next to the stove. When you don’t have a lot of space they allow you to keep more things handy.
Keechee 3-pcs Bamboo Cutting Boards
I think it’s important to have more than one cutting board. When I do cook with meat, I want to have a separate cutting board only for that. And a small one for the little stuff. And something that is not plastic! Like these bamboo cutting boards.
Handheld Kitchen Gadget Blender
There are times when it makes more sense to use a hand blender instead of a food processor. This blender has a detachable base for easy cleaning and storage. And a Turbo Boost for those times you want to crank up the power and speed!