Over the years Andy and I have received and purchased a wide array of small kitchen essentials that we use frequently. I’m not saying I can’t live without these things, but they make my life much easier. I’ll keep this list updated with the items we use most often.

Food Processor. Make quick work of sauces, shredding cabbage, making cauliflower “rice” and so many other things. I use mine at least once a week. Definitely worth the price tag.

Immersion Blender. Puree soups easily with this magic wand.

Veggie Spiralizer. Zucchini noodles. Enough said.

Crock Pot. No explanation needed.
Rice Cooker. I plan to buy an Instant Pot at some point, but my basic model works juuuust fine. I actually found mine at a yard sale with my sister (we literally never go to yard sales, so it was fate), and it was the best $2 I’ve ever spent in my entire life.

Mango Corer. For Salmon with Mango Lime Salsa (and for mangoes in general).

Meat Claws. Because they’re hilarious, but actually work really well for pulled pork shoulder.
Dutch Oven. Ours is a Le Creuset, and was given to us as a wedding gift, but if I were to buy my own I would go with this one.

Cast Iron Skillet. Start on the stove and move to the oven without having to dirty multiple dishes. It also works great as a serving piece.

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