I adore spending time in my kitchen. It’s a space where countless memories are created, and everyone gathers as a family. Each morning, I prepare a large breakfast and pack lunches, and while I prep dinner, the kids do their homework here. It’s one of my happy places and over the years I’ve created a kitchen that is bright and cheerful. Cooking for my family brings me immense joy, and I cherish the time spent in this space. It’s important to me to ensure it’s stocked with all the kitchen essentials to guarantee everyone enjoys a beautiful meal. We don’t typically eat out at restaurants very often unless we’re traveling for the kids’ sports and ordering for delivery isn’t really an option out on the farm.
Today, I’m going to share some of my favorite kitchen essentials. Some I use daily, while others are for special occasions like hosting holidays and birthdays; but all are equally valuable tools that I love! While not everyone has the storage space for all of these kitchen items, I recommend thinking about what kitchen tools you reach for most often and invest in those. Do you only use a standing mixer once a year? You could probably pare down to a hand mixer. If you’re not one to host gatherings in your home, you’d likely not need as much serving ware. Thinking through questions like this will help you narrow down your own kitchen essentials. Here are my go-to items.
My Kitchen Essentials
Small Kitchen Appliances
These small kitchen appliances are among my most essential tools. I use our Nespresso and juicer first thing in the morning and rely on the crockpot for meal prepping during those busy evenings with the kids. These appliances are ones I reach for almost every day. Some are kept out on the counter for easy access, while others are stored away until needed.
In addition to these favorites, I also find my blender invaluable for making smoothies and sauces, and my toaster oven is perfect for quick snacks and reheating leftovers. Each of these appliances brings convenience and efficiency to my cooking routine, allowing me to spend more quality time with my family. Whether it’s preparing breakfast, lunch, or dinner, having the right tools at my fingertips makes all the difference in creating delicious meals effortlessly.
Pots, Pans, Bakeware
The other kitchen heroes are my pots, pans, and bakeware. I’ve found that investing in quality products means I need to replace them less often. Along with the small appliances, I use them almost every day. The Goldtouch bakeware is a recent purchase for me this year, and has been great!
When it comes to kitchen gear, I’ve learned that quality investment pieces truly make a difference. For instance, my stainless steel pots and cast iron pans have become staples in my cooking routine. They not only distribute heat evenly but also last for years, if not decades, with proper care. It’s so satisfying to know that, rather than cheap, flimsy alternatives that warp or scratch easily, I have reliable tools that withstand daily use.
These investment pieces also elevate my cooking experience; the ease of cooking and cleanup, thanks to high-quality non-stick surfaces and durable materials, encourages me to try new recipes and techniques. In the long run, they save money and time, allowing me to focus on what I love most: creating delicious meals.
Dinnerware
I have a nicer porcelain set of plates and bowls that we use frequently, but I also have a melamine set of plates for quick meals or when we’re dining outside. I keep it simple with glassware, wineglasses, and a quality set of ivory flatware.
When it comes to family-friendly dining, I strive to maintain a balance between practicality and elegance. The melamine set is not only durable and shatterproof, making it perfect for little hands, but it also comes in beautiful designs that can add a cheerful touch to our outdoor gatherings. I love incorporating colorful napkins and simple centerpieces for an extra pop, creating an inviting atmosphere without sacrificing aesthetics. This way, we can enjoy family meals while keeping everything both beautiful and functional.
Servingware
These items are great for hosting. From placemats to serving boards and pasta bowls, these are what I reach for when company is coming. I love to use the glass cloche dome to display any baked goods. It brings a little dose of cafe chic to the kitchen.
Tools
These small tools are so helpful to keep on hand and don’t take up too much space. A set of high-quality knives will make meal prepping significantly easier. While not necessarily a kitchen essential for everyone, I love the handheld frother for my morning coffee. It’s a little treat that makes me smile.
Organization
As a mom of four and the wife of a farmer, I rely on reusable containers for meals and snacks on the go. They’re perfect for the kids to throw in their bags and for Adam to take with him when he’s in the fields. I like to decant my spices into the spice jars because it helps me see if we’re running low on them. There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of cooking and realizing you don’t have the spice you need.
Everything Else
When it comes to creating a functional kitchen, having the right cooking tools makes all the difference. A quality knife set is essential, featuring a chef’s knife for precise chopping and a paring knife for more delicate tasks. Stainless steel cooking utensils are not only durable but also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. I love using a slotted spoon for draining pasta and measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions.
A sturdy cutting board is essential for protecting your countertops, while mixing bowls in various sizes help with preparing different dishes. Don’t forget the oven-safe sheet pan, which is perfect for roasting vegetables or baking cookies. A reliable garlic press can elevate your recipes with ease. In my kitchen, I appreciate tools that are easy to clean, allowing me to focus on enjoying the cooking process rather than stressing about the mess!
Be sure to read my other kitchen-related posts!
Healthy Items to Stock Your Kitchen
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