This month's list of kitchen tools are unexpectedly delightful finds that I have actually used quite a bit this month for an array of recipes. I love that all three tools are multi-purpose and cost under $30 (double yay!). So while this month's selection may seem random, I have found these tools to be extremely helpful and very practical when working in the kitchen. Without further adieu, I give you June's "Motley Crew."
OXO Non-Stick Pizza Cutter
Over the past few months I have found myself making more pizzas and bread doughs at home. I am a huge fan of using my Emile Henry Baking Stone for cooking pizzas and breads, but had become frustrated with the plating/serving process. I know it's ok to cut on the baking stone, but in an effort to keep my lovely stone looking pristine, I would rather not. In addition, if I were using one of my non-stick cookie sheets instead of the stone then I wouldn't even entertain the idea of cutting on the surface of the sheet. However, my tune has recently changed with my recent discovery of the OXO Non-Stick Pizza Wheel! This pizza wheel is non-stick, sharp as can be, safe to use on non-stick surfaces, dishwasher safe and at a cost of $13 how could I resist not owning one?!?
Microplane Box Grater
When I was creating my wedding registry, I tried to be as thoughtful and practical as possible when it came to the items that I selected. I wanted quality products that would last, but at the same time I didn't want to select items that would create unnecessary clutter. Prior to registering, I already owned the Microplane Rasp Grater, which was fabulous for zesting citrus and grating nutmeg. For those of you who may not be familiar with the world of microplanes, they are fabulous tools that come in more than a dozen grating options. In an effort to stick with my registry mantra of quality with minimal clutter, I opted to register for the Microplane Box Grater and I am so glad that I did! The box grater offers 4 microplanes in 1! You can grate onions and blocks of cheese, zest citrus, shave chocolate and even slice potatoes and apples with uniformity! Recently Microplane came out with a new version of their box grater (here), but you can still find the older model that I have pictured above at a reduced price (here)! Of course I have to note my favorite bonus feature of the microplane box grater…it's dishwasher safe!!
Lodge 6.5 inch Cast Iron Skillet
This was a late addition to the list, but in light of the fact that I have had so much fun with my Lodge 6.5in Cast Iron Skillet over the past week (see post here and photos on my instagram page), I felt like it was a must for this month's kitchen tool post. This little skillet cooks food very well, makes for a fabulously rustic presentation, can be used for a variety of dishes (hot dips, breakfast eggs and even a giant cookie!) AND this cast iron skillet is priced quite reasonably…$11!
Chef's Table
This is really a public service announcement - Netflix has recently released a new documentary series, entitled Chef's Table, profiling 6 highly decorated chefs from all walks of life. It took me all of 5 minutes into watching the first segment to become completely hooked! The cinematography is nothing short of superb and the show has received rave reviews from the likes of Bon Appetit, Entertainment Weekly and The New York Times. Chef's Table will entertain both the foodie and non-foodie, plus it's a great weekend activity. I highly recommend checking out this Netflix original series.
**Apologies for the poor quality photo, taking pictures of television shows has never been a strength of mine.