Every kitchen has a drawer full of gadgets that seemed like a great idea at the time — and then never got used again. The difference between a gadget that earns its space and one that gathers dust is simple: it has to save you time or effort almost every time you cook.
That is the test we used for the picks in this guide. Each one does a real job, does it well, and is easy enough to grab that you will actually use it.
One tool instead of four
The best place to start is with tools that replace several others. The Multi-Function Stainless Steel Cooking Spoon is a cooking spoon, egg separator, grater and slotted spoon in a single piece of stainless steel — four tools in one, which means less clutter and less washing up.
Prep work, minus the chore
Chopping is where most weeknight cooking time goes. A Vegetable Chopper with interchangeable blades turns onions, peppers and potatoes into neat pieces in seconds, and the container catches everything so there is nothing to sweep off the counter. Pair it with a classic Cheese Grater for the finishing touches — freshly grated cheese beats the pre-shredded bag every time.
Smoothies without the big blender
If you like a smoothie in the morning but hate dragging out a full-size blender, the Pink Portable Blender Bottle is made for exactly that. Blend in the bottle, drink from the bottle, and you are done — one thing to wash instead of three.
What to look for
When you are choosing kitchen gadgets, keep three questions in mind: will I use it at least once a week? Does it replace something I already own? And is it easy to clean? If the answer is yes to all three, it has earned its drawer space.
