Yesterday was all things serving and entertaining. Today we’re getting into the nitty gritty of how to make the goodies that go with all of those beautiful plates, flatware, platters and glasses. I’ll start with small kitchen appliances. Since I am focusing on items one would put on a wedding registry, I am going to skip super splurge worthy items and try to keep the price reasonable. In other words, I don’t think a $3,500 espresso maker is something most of us would feel comfortable asking someone to buy for us. Maybe in some circles, but not mine.
The appliance that gets the most use in my kitchen is definitely the coffee maker. I use it every day. I am not a huge Keurig fan as I hate the waste the pods create. My sister, parents and I all have the same coffee maker. My sister was the first to get one and my dad and I immediately ordered after seeing it action at her house. I’ve shared this before because I love it so much. We’ve had it for years and never had any issues with it. I’m talking about the Ninja 10 cup specialty coffee maker. This checks all of the boxes, trust me. I love programming it at night so I wake up to fresh, hot coffee. Learn more here: https://amzn.to/3ONrnwk
Ninja Coffee Maker
Other than the coffee maker, the biggest workhorse in my kitchen is my slow cooker. Admittedly it gets more use now than when I was a newlywed, thanks to my kids’ schedules, but I’ve always been thankful I have one. A good slow cooker is worth its weight in gold. This All Clad slow cooker is my exact model. I’ve had it for years and it’s been used a lot. I actually had a much less expensive brand for a few months and quickly realized the value just wasn’t there. You won’t regret it: https://amzn.to/49dnKYV
All Clad Slow Cooker
I have blogged about my love for my KitchenAid stand mixer for years. I’ve had mine since 2002 and it’s still going strong. I wouldn’t mind upgrading to a fun color and larger bowl, but I have no complaints about the performance of my mixer. They’re the best. I’d tell any couple stocking their kitchen to add one of these to their registry. And go for a fun color! Check them out here: https://amzn.to/4bWCr4u
Stand Mixer
Another appliance we have had for years that I cannot imagine going without is our electric knife sharpener. Sharp knives make kitchen prep so much more enjoyable. Also? This is one of the few items the fellas seem to get excited about on a registry. Or at least that was the case for us. The reviews are great and the price point is perfect for gifting. This is the one we have and love: https://amzn.to/433P35T
Knife Sharpener
Obviously you’re going to need some knives to go with that sharpener. We have a lot of knives, but really only use a few. I say skip the big block and opt for something like this: https://amzn.to/433P35T. A block this size has everything you need, won’t take up a ton of space on the counter and is a reasonable price point. Plus, it’s pretty. Henckels is a reliable, solid brand. Their knives are excellent quality and last forever if you take care of them. I’m speaking from experience.
Knife Set
Speaking of knives, these are the exact steak knives I’ve owned and loved since our wedding: https://amzn.to/49HgNjf. No regrets. If you don’t want to take my word for it, read the thousands of positive reviews. I love that the entire knife is stainless steel, including the handle.
Steak Knives
Yet another item I’ve shared before that was a wedding gift that has is still loved all these years later is a Boos Block. It’s the best cutting board/carving board/charcuterie board you’ll ever own. Add one to your registry here: https://amzn.to/3wD8oOP
Boos Block
We registered for Calphalon non-stick cookware and still have some of them. They served us well, but we’re gradually swapping our existing pots and pans for greener options. This is what I would choose today: https://amzn.to/4bStyss. Bonus? They’re dishwasher safe!
GreenPan Pots and Pans
Moving on from big ticket items to the kitchen essentials every well stocked kitchen should have. Instead of wandering through the aisles at a department store, you can use this curated list from Amazon. Most of these do not need any explanation, so I’ll just simply post links and photos. There’s no rhyme or reason to the order of these tools. I walked around my kitchen and took note of the essentials.
Mixing Bowls https://amzn.to/42V5HUQ
Vegetable Peeler https://amzn.to/49KPxQn
Metal Spatula https://amzn.to/3wxwPxl
Silicone Spatulas https://amzn.to/48puZvG
Set of 3 Silicone Spatulas (for flipping) https://amzn.to/49rTlGt
Cookie Sheets https://amzn.to/48uaJcc
Pyrex Baking Dishes https://amzn.to/3Tbs1Xj
Food Storage Containers https://amzn.to/4bMvkLH
Le Creuset Lasagna Dish (so many great colors!) https://amzn.to/3wxvlDd
Microban Cutting Boards https://amzn.to/49PkRNE
MacKenzie Childs Spoon Rest https://amzn.to/49KBkmr
You know I had to sneak some MacKenzie Childs into a registry!
MacKenzie Childs Utensil Holder https://amzn.to/48qllch
I have and love. Courtly Check is fabulous.
Kitchen Shears https://amzn.to/3UNmyXU
Bamboo Utensils https://amzn.to/3OXbuUu
Strainer/Colander https://amzn.to/49ru2o0
I have donated our others and replaced with these. They take up much less space than most colanders and I love that they go over the sink.
Roasting Pan https://amzn.to/3wwzNlG
If you ever plan to roast a turkey or cook ribs, you’ll want this. Have and love.
Measuring Cups https://amzn.to/3TcanCH
Tongs https://amzn.to/3Ikpdk9
Best Measuring Spoons Ever https://amzn.to/3OZJcsq
The shape of these allows them to fit in even the smallest of jars. Also? That leveler tool is a game changer.
I’m going to continue to share this next kitchen essential until I am blue in the face. I can’t remember life before them. I’m talking about…
Gravity Salt and Pepper Grinders https://amzn.to/3Tcu7WV
I’m sure I’m forgetting a few things, but I feel strongly that this list can get you through any meal. Kitchen gadgets are great registry items because the majority of them are wallet friendly.
Tune in tomorrow for part three: linens, towels, decor and other random “around the house” indulgences.
Have a great Tuesday!
