At Healthline Nutrition, we want you to eat foods that make you feel well. We usually start with science, but we know that real-life eating does not follow a flawless dietary pattern. Here’s how to improve your eating habits while still enjoying your meals.
Almost every January, people express an interest in diet, health, and wellness. There are numerous resolutions centered on weight loss, specific eating patterns, exercise goals, and more.
While I enjoy seeing people’s enthusiasm for taking better care of themselves, it all too often begins with cutting out innumerable foods and going to the gym seven days a week. The lofty start may seem fantastic, but it tends to fade within a few weeks.
Instead of avoiding sugar, carbs, or bread, how about focusing on modest, positive adjustments you can make? Swaps that may not appear to be important, but are far more likely to be long-term.
It is believed that just approximately 9% of people keep their resolutions each year. Why not try a healthy recharge instead? It’s not as interesting, but returning to basics is critical.
If you are unsure where to begin, you are not alone. Almost everyone has an opinion about nutrition, and it is rarely, if ever, evidence-based.
Sifting through dietary advice on social media can be difficult in terms of determining what is real and what makes sense for you. I encourage you to begin with what the science suggests and to start small.
New researchTrusted Source has recently been published, demonstrating the importance of hydration in good aging, therefore drink more water.
We know that sleep is essential for general health and has an impact on hunger and food desires.
Almost 90% of usTrusted Source do not consume the necessary quantity of fruits and vegetables, but we have some imaginative and simple solutions to help you get your fill.
If you’re already checking those boxes and getting some exercise, that’s great. Consider additional little strategies to renew your eating habits. Perhaps you set a goal of trying one new food per week, eating protein-rich foods at most meals and snacks, cooking more at home, or meal planning on Sundays.
Notice how the majority of the minor changes I mention are beneficial. These are foods or practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine. I dislike restriction or deprivation, but I feel that introducing some nice things can naturally help drown out undesirable behaviors.
Healthline believes that nutrition should be accessible to everyone.
Nutrition and good eating are frequently described as a $80 smoothie packed with potions, powders, and tinctures. In actuality, you could make a smoothie with frozen fruits and vegetables for a fraction of the cost that would be just as nutritious.
Healthy food should not only be affordable, but also tasty. Only 29% of Healthline readers said healthy food tastes nice, indicating that the majority of consumers associate healthy food with terrible taste. This is one fallacy that I hope we can dispel together.
Not everything has to be the best dinner of your life, but have you ever eaten roasted Brussels sprouts? They have a completely different flavor from any steamed or boiled sprouts you might have had as a child.
If cooking overwhelms you, these ten simple dinner recipes can help you put delicious and easy dinners on the table. Consider using a healthy food delivery service to make dinner even easy.
Healthy eating should include foods you enjoy, foods from your childhood, and foods that are culturally significant.
Beyond Your Plate
When it comes to your health, nutrition is just one component of the intricate equation. Good diet is important, but it is not the only thing that matters.
When it comes to a healthy refresh, some of the adjustments will take place on your plate while others will occur outside of nutrition. General wellness activities include getting more sleep, moving more, and caring for your emotional health.
Far too often, I see individuals feel humiliated for eating a brownie or french fries, or for making a “bad” food choice. This year, try to let go of food guilt and treat yourself with kindness instead.
When I eat more processed foods than normal, it’s typically because I’ve been busy building nice memories. Instead of beating myself up, I let it go and am confident that my next few meals will be more nutrient-dense.
At Healthline, we will teach you about optimal nutrition and empower you to use that knowledge to figure out what works best for you. That can range from high-protein salads to guilt-free cookies.
I’m pulling for you to abandon your quest for dietary perfection and instead embrace the benefits of eating foods that make you happy.
I hope that when you visit Healthline nutrition, you feel as if you’re sitting down to a nice, comforting, and balanced meal with a friend who happens to be an expert in nutrition science.
Here’s to discarding resolutions and updating your eating habits in 2023.
Nutrition
15 Essential Kitchen Tools to Stock Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank
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How we vet brands and products.
When it comes to meal preparation, having a well-stocked kitchen makes a huge difference. However, if you’re new to cooking, determining which tools you’ll need can be overwhelming.
Laura Geraty, a registered dietitian, chef instructor, and certified intuitive eating coach, believes that while equipping your kitchen, four factors should be considered: culinary expertise, cooking enthusiasm, money, and storage space.
If you are an expert in the kitchen, you may require different tools than those who are just starting out. The same is true if you prefer to create intricate recipes over quick and easy dinners.
However, no matter how experienced a home cook is, they all require some fundamental kitchen utensils.
We’ve compiled a list of the 15 greatest basic kitchen items to make cooking easier and more fun, while keeping a budget in mind.
Quick look at the greatest kitchen tools
- The best knife set: Cuisinart White Triple Rivet Block Set in Grey Block.
- Best cutting board: KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Board.
- Best cooking utensils: OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Tongs with Nylon Heads
- Best spatula: OXO Silicone Flexible Turner.
- The best garlic press is Zulay Kitchen Garlic Press.
- Best Whisk: KitchenAid Gourmet Utility Whisk.
- Best wooden cooking utensils: Riveira Bamboo Cooking Utensils Set.
- The best meat thermometer is KIZEN Digital Meat Thermometer with Probe.
- Best nonstick skillet: T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized 2-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set.
- Best Baking Sheets: Rachael Ray 3-Piece Baking Sheet Set
- Best Mixing Bowls: Finedine Premium Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 6).
- Best box grater: Amazon Basics Professional Box Grater.
- Best measuring cups and spoons: Smithcraft Measuring Cups and Spoons Set.
- Best colander: Qimh Collapsible Over-the-Sink Colander
- The best silicone baking mats are Amazon Basics Silicone Non-Stick Food Safe Baking Mats.
Which kitchen utensils are truly essential?
Essential kitchen tools are those that you will use on a daily or weekly basis.
While the exact list of everyday-use products differs from one cook to the next, Geraty believes there are a few fundamental kitchen tools everyone should have on hand:
- Wooden Spoons
- Silicone spatulas
- A whisk.
- Kitchen scissors
- A meat thermometer.
Geraty advises against purchasing “anything with a single purpose, like an egg slicer, apple peeler, banana slicer, cherry pitter, etc.”
How did we choose?
When selecting the top basic kitchen tools, we considered the following factors:
Cost: All of the kitchen tools on this list are under $100.
Practicality: There are no gadgets or gimmicks on this list. All of the cooking equipment listed have a functional application, and several may be used in multiple ways in your kitchen.
Durability: We selected tools that, when used properly, will withstand the test of time in your kitchen.
Ease of use: Every kitchen equipment on our list is simple to use, even for the most inexperienced cook.
Vetting: We vetted the goods on our list to ensure that they meet Healthline’s brand integrity criteria and attitude to well-being. You may learn more about our verification procedure.
A remark on pricing
General pricing ranges with dollar signs ($-$$$) are shown below. A one-dollar sign indicates that the goods is reasonably priced, whereas three dollar signs imply that it is more expensive.
Prices typically range from $9.86 and $99.95, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
Pricing guidance.
$ = less than $20.
$$ = $20-$50
$$$ = over $50
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- Healthline’s recommendations for the best kitchen tools
- Best Knife Set
- Cuisinart White Triple Rivet Block Set with Grey Block
Price: $$$.
While a high-quality set of knives might be expensive, Cuisinart’s knife set is an excellent value.
The 15-piece set includes a chef’s knife for cutting produce, meats, and other large objects, as well as a paring knife for peeling and trimming fruits and vegetables.
It also includes multipurpose kitchen scissors for simply opening food packages, cutting rope, and chopping herbs or salad greens.
Conveniently, the knife set includes a knife block for storage and a sharpener to keep your blades sharp.
Pros
- 15-piece package at a relatively low price.
- Includes block, kitchen scissors, and sharpening steel.
- ergonomically constructed handles.
Cons
- The knives are lighter and less balanced than more expensive versions.
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- Best Cutting Board
- KitchenAid Classic Non-Slip Plastic Cutting Board
Price: $$.
There is little point in having a good set of knives if you don’t have a trustworthy cutting board to utilize them on.
The KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Board is a simple, inexpensive cutting board that will make slicing and chopping easier.
The nonslip corners keep the board in place (important for safety when cutting), and the BPA-free plastic surface is ideal for chopping.
Furthermore, the nonporous material is easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Nonslip edges
- dishwasher-safe
- affordable
- Drainage channel on one side.
- durable
- Available in several sizes.
Cons
- Some people remark that food travels around too much on the smooth surface.
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- Best kitchen tongs.
- OXO Good Grips 9″ Tongs with Nylon Heads
Price: $.
Tongs are one of the best versatile kitchen utensils available, with applications ranging from salad serving to extracting pasta from boiling water.
OXO’s tongs are our top pick because to their pleasant handles and locking feature for easy storage.
Furthermore, the nylon heads make them easy to clean and prevent scratches on nonstick pots and pans.
Pros
- dishwasher-safe
- Safe for nonstick cookware.
- resistant to high temperatures
- Comfortable grip
- Easy-to-use locking mechanism
- affordable
Cons
- The locking mechanism may break with time.
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- Best spatula.
- OXO Silicone Flexible Turner.
Price: $.
Spatulas are indispensable tools in any kitchen. A decent spatula is essential for food preparation, from flipping pancakes and eggs to sautéing a stir-fry.
The OXO silicone spatula is one of my favorite culinary equipment, and I don’t lie when I say I use it almost every day.
It will not damage a nonstick pan and is available in two sizes: small and large. It’s also heat-resistant and features a silicone grip, making it simple to hold and use. Furthermore, it is dishwasher-safe, making cleaning a pleasure.
Pros
- Available in both small and large sizes.
- heat-resistant
- Comfortable grip
- dishwasher-safe
- Safe for nonstick cookware.
- affordable
Cons
- Cons
- Some say that the enormous size is too big.
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- Best Garlic Press
- Zulay Kitchen Garlic Press
Price: $.
The majority of the items on this list have several uses in the kitchen, but we made an exception for the garlic press.
Every professional chef we contacted about the garlic press felt it was unnecessary, yet home cooks raved about it.
It’s a great time saver if you don’t like mincing garlic and want to avoid the pre-minced garlic available at your local grocery shop.
A garlic press allows you to smash garlic cloves in one swift action. The Zulay garlic press, in example, is a long-lasting yet affordable option that will make utilizing fresh garlic in your next meal a breeze.
It is also dishwasher safe for simple cleaning.
Pros
- dishwasher-safe
- affordable
- Available in several hues.
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- durable and simple to use.
Cons
- The paint may chip off with time.
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- Best whisk.
- KitchenAid Gourmet Utility Whisk.
Price: $.
Whisks are versatile culinary utensils that are ideal for activities like mixing mixtures and whipping milk. When shopping for a whisk, choose one that is strong and will withstand daily usage.
This KitchenAid whisk is just that. It is not only long-lasting, but also reasonably priced and dishwasher-safe.
It also comes in four different colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your kitchen.
Pros
- affordable
- Available in four colors.
- dishwasher-safe
- ergonomic design.
- robust, lasting design.
Cons
- a little heavy, according to several reviewers.
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- Best wooden cooking tools.
- Riveira Bamboo Cooking Utensil Set.
Price: $.
Every kitchen should contain a collection of wooden spoons for cooking. Riveira’s bamboo tool set includes six spoons and spatulas, as well as slotted spoons for soups, stews, and sauces.
The utensils are constructed of organic material and are nonstick, which prevents scratches on your cookware.
Furthermore, they are simple to clean, albeit it is preferable to wash them by hand rather than in the dishwasher.
Pros
- Made of 100% organic nonstick bamboo.
- Safe for nonstick cookware.
- Includes six spoons and spatulas.
- Lifetime warranty.
- Strong and durable.
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe.
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- Best meat thermometer.
- KIZEN Digital Meat Thermometer with Probe.
Price: $$.
A digital meat thermometer is essential for preparing the perfect medium-rare steak. It also contributes to food safety by allowing you to confirm proper interior temperatures for meals such as fish and chicken.
I personally use and adore the KIZEN meat thermometer. It boasts a large, easy-to-read display with accurate cooking temperatures displayed right next to the screen for quick reference.
It’s also waterproof, making it simple to clean. However, it is not dishwasher safe.
Bonus: I bought this thermometer over a year ago and still haven’t updated the battery.
Pros
- affordable
- Large, easy-to-read screen.
- waterproof
- Quick temperature readings.
- Available in three hues.
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe.
- No audio reading.
- There is no Bluetooth or app compatibility.
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- Best nonstick skillet.
- T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Two-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Price: $$$.
A good set of pans is a must for any home cook. Nonstick skillets are ideal for preparing a wide range of foods, including pan-seared salmon and over-easy eggs.
T-fal’s kit is an excellent value for everyday use.
The pans are scratch-resistant, nonstick, and dishwasher safe. They also have a color indicator that tells you when a pan is preheated and ready to cook — a handy feature for inexperienced home cooks!
If you need a whole set of pots and pans, T-fal also sells hard anodized cookware in 14- and 17-piece sets.
Pros
- relatively affordable.
- scratch-resistant
- nonstick
- dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Some reviews claim the pans are thinner and may not retain heat as well as more expensive options.
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- Best baking sheets.
- Rachael Ray 3 Piece Baking Sheet Set
Price: $$.
Rachael Ray’s nonstick baking sheets are a must-have due to their rubber grips, low price, and strong steel construction designed to resist warping.
These pans are a culinary mainstay, and I’ve used them to make everything from cookies to vegetables. Furthermore, continuous use has kept them in shape.
The pans are oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C) and have easy-to-clean nonstick surfaces.
Pros
- Set of three pans.
- Rubber grips.
- Designed to prevent warping.
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C).
- nonstick
Cons
- The largest pan may be too large for some ovens.
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- Best Mixing Bowls
- Finedine Premium Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of Six)
Price: $$.
You do not have to be a baker to own mixing bowls. Scrambling eggs, whisking salad dressings, stirring cake batter, and making meatballs are all things you can do with a mixing bowl.
This multipurpose stainless steel mixing bowl set comes in six sizes and nests for easy storage.
The bowls are shatterproof, freezer-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean and long-lasting.
Pros
- There are six sizes
- Nesting design for compact storage.
- shatterproof
- Freezer and dishwasher safe.
- lightweight
Cons
- will rust if they are not completely dried.
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- Best box grater.
- Amazon Basics Professional Box Grater.
Price: $$.
A box grater is ideal for shredding tiny amounts of cheese or vegetables. Furthermore, it is easier to clean than a food processor and takes up less storage space.
This professional box grater from Amazon Basics features nonslip handles to keep it in position while you work.
It also has a distinct shredding blade on each side for flexibility.
Pros
- Available in several hues.
- Non-slip grips.
- Four distinct shredding blades.
- huge size, simpler to clean.
Cons
- Some users detest the enormous size.
- Food might become stuck behind the black grips.
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- Excellent measuring cups and spoons.
- Smithcraft Measuring Cup and Spoon Set
Price: $$.
Measuring cups and spoons are vital, especially if you bake frequently or follow recipes closely.
Smithcraft’s affordable set includes practically every measurement you could possibly need as a home cook.
The eight cups and nine spoons are constructed of stainless steel and have etched handles with both metric and US measurements. They’re rust-resistant for durability and dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup.
Pros
- There are nine spoons and eight cup sizes.
- Metric and US measures
- Easy to read
- rust-resistant
- dishwasher-safe
- Lifetime replacement guarantee.
Cons
- Some consumers have reported difficulty separating the cups when nested for storage.
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- Best colander
- Qimh Collapsible Over-Sink Colander
Price: $.
Healthline Nutrition and Fitness Market Editor Kelli McGrane, MS, RD, like this over-the-sink colander.
“Storage space is a premium in our household, so I’m always looking for items that are more compact and easier to store,” adds the mother.
“Not only is this colander collapsible to save space, but it also offers a large capacity, can be used over a sink, and is dishwasher-safe — all bonuses in my book.”
According to McGrane, the colander works well for pasta, fruits, and vegetables, but smaller items will require a fine-mesh strainer.
Pros
- Collapsible for compact storage.
- Can be used over the sink or freestanding.
- Large capacity.
- dishwasher-safe
- affordable
Cons
- may be too big for certain dishwashers.
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Best Silicone Baking Mats
AmazonBasics Silicone Non-Stick Food Safe Baking Mats
Price: $.
McGrane also suggests the Amazon Basics Silicone Nonstick Food Safe Baking Mats.
McGrane comments, “These silicone baking mats are an excellent eco-friendly substitute for parchment paper.
“I’ve used them for everything from baking cookies to roasting veggies and have always found them simple to operate and clean. I also like how they’ve saved me money by not having to buy parchment paper as frequently.”
According to Amazon, these mats are oven safe up to 480°F (249°C). They are not dishwasher-safe, so you will have to hand wash them.
Pros
- affordable
- Oven safe up to 480°F (249°C).
- nonstick
- Replaces single-use parchment paper.
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe.
How to find economical and quality kitchen products.
Stocking your kitchen can be a costly task, especially if you’re beginning from scratch. Use these tips to save money on important kitchen tools:
Shop sales: Make a list of the tools you need and keep an eye out for deals. Consider buying following a significant holiday, when many products are discounted. Some large stores also offer fantastic prices on popular sale days such as Cyber Monday and Labor Day.
Look for membership deals: Retailers frequently offer exclusive discounts to members or those who subscribe to their email list.
Buy from industry experts: Restaurant-specific online and physical stores are excellent places to obtain long-lasting utensils at a fair price.
Know when to splurge: Some kitchen equipment is worth the money. A stand mixer and a complete set of pots and pans are frequently the most expensive pieces of kitchen equipment. Take the time to investigate and decide which goods are worth spending money on and which may be replaced with less expensive alternatives.
Frequently asked Questions
Which is the most useful kitchen tool?
The best cooking utensil for you will be determined by your specific needs.
For example, if you frequently bake or cook foods in the oven, a high-quality set of baking sheets or a casserole pan will be most valuable to you.
However, if you rarely use the oven and prefer to cook on the stovetop, you might consider investing in a full set of pots and pans.
Some people may feel that the most beneficial kitchen item is something simple and tailored to their needs, such as a chef’s knife, chopping board, or set of mixing bowls.
The bottom truth is that the most useful kitchen equipment is one that you will use the most.
Which is the finest brand for cooking utensils?
There are numerous high-quality cooking utensil companies that provide various benefits. Some businesses emphasize durability, while others stress sustainability. For example, OXO stands out for providing long-lasting, easy-to-hold utensils at reasonable costs.
Before making a purchase, research the product and read reviews from several websites.
The bottom line
If you want to eat more at home, having a well-stocked kitchen is vital for success.
While filling a kitchen can be intimidating, begin by selecting basic products that you know you’ll use on a daily or weekly basis.
Finally, keep in mind that, while some goods are worth splurging on, there are many of high-quality kitchen gadgets available at reasonable prices.
