Kitchen Basics

When it comes to kitchen gadgets, keep it simple. There are several unnecessary tools and gadgets available for almost every task in the kitchen. However, for everyday cooks looking to put a delicious meal together, you really only need the basics.  Sticking to the basics will help you save money and cabinet space.

1. Sheet Pan: This works for almost everything from roasted pork tenderloin to H3 Pita Pizzas.

2. Strainer: Use your strainer to double as a steamer.  When boiling pasta set the strainer on top of your sauce pot and put any of your favorite vegetables in the strainer, this will steam your vegetables without dirtying any extra dishes.

3. Spatula: The spatula is my go to utensil. It will help you scrape your bowl clean and it is great for cooking when making anything such as the H3 Marinara or even eggs.

4. Scoops: Not ice cream scoops, portioning scoops! Scoops are excellent when counting your calories. Use a scoop when portioning out your rice for dinner or mashed potatoes.

5. Sautee pan: A medium sauté pan will work for almost anything; Ground turkey breast, searing chicken, sautéing vegetables, or making your morning scrambled eggs. Also, you do not have to go out and by a meat mallet this sauté pan will work just as well.

6. Sauce Pot: A medium sauce pot is necessary for any sauces or boiling pasta, potatoes, or vegetables.

7. Chef's Knife: Don't be afraid of a sharp knife! The sharper the safer!

8. Plastic Storage Containers: Plastic storage containers are your ticket to a healthy weekly meal plan.  Use your day off to whip up your entire week of dinners. Portion out each meal in a plastic container and freeze what you will not use that week. Eventually your freezer will be stocked full of good healthy meal options.

9. Cutting board: A 15x20 inch sized cutting board will do. Too small of a cutting board and your good prep will be falling off of the board. 

10. Tongs: Tongs are an extension of your hand. These are great for grilling or flipping proteins.

11. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are a must for a first time cook. These tools will ensure an accurate recipe.

12. Mixing Bowls: You will always need a mixing bowl, 3 different sizes will be plenty.

13. Scissors: Scissors come in handy everyday. They will help assist you in cleaning a chicken breast or cutting open the frozen vegetable bag.

14. Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is a must! Unfortunately, too often we overcook our meat.  Using a meat thermometer will avoid overcooked, dry meat.

15. Blender: If you are looking for a piece of equipment, a blender will do the most. You could easily use a blender for smoothies, salsa or, if you caught my post from earlier this week, H3's Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese.

Now you’re all set! Start cooking!