Looking for items for your holiday wish list? A basic kitchen tool might sound boring and not very gift–worthy. But an item that makes everyday cooking easier, more successful and lasts for years or a lifetime is leaps and bounds better than a gift you add to your list because you need another item.But an item that makes everyday cooking easier, more successful and lasts for years or a lifetime is leaps and bounds better than a gift you add to your list because you need another item. And the best part is the price. These items are perfect for a modest gift exchange or a year of simple gift giving.

Cast Iron Skillet

If you don't own a cast iron skillet, you need to get one. This heavy duty and indestructible cooking staple can take care of most stovetop needs better than other pots and pans, all at a low price. And a cast iron skillet can even head straight into the oven to keep the food warm and is great for baking biscuits, corn bread and cobblers. Find cast iron skillets at Lodge.

High Quality Knife

There are few kitchen jobs that do not require a knife. One or two good knives with sharp, stainless steel blades allow you to chop, slice, dice, and mince with ease, and will last over even an entire set of mediocre ones. When looking for knives, keep in mind the tasks you undergo most frequently–many knives are designed for specific jobs. A paring knife and chef's knife are essential and will cover most tasks. For softer fruits like tomatoes and citrus, a utility knife with a serrated edge is also very useful. When shopping for a knife, also try out the handle and make sure it fits your grip comfortably, so you can chop with confidence. OXO makes a range of affordable knives with its signature rubber grip that won't slip, even when wet.

Kitchen Scissors

Kitchen scissors are handy to have within reach for a multitude of kitchen jobs. They can even take the place of specialized kitchen tools and knives with better results. Use them to cut through meat, trim flowers, snip vegetables and strip herbs. OXO makes a great pair of scissors that absorb pressure as you cut.

Basic Mixing Bowl Set

A good set of mixing bowls will be used over and over. When shopping around, choose a set of varying sizes that you can rely on for multiple jobs–a small bowl for marinades and salad dressing, a medium bowl for cake and cookie batter, and a large bowl for doubling recipes. A lightweight set with a non-slip bottom and handle grips are ideal for stability as you whisk, beat, and mix ingredients together.

Cookbook

A reference cookbook with basic recipes and cooking techniques is timeless and dependable. The good ones have standard recipes with ideas for variations and professional insight about how to cook successfully. Get back to basics with: The Art of Simple Food, How to Cook Everything, The Best Recipe from Cooks Illustrated, The Way to Cook, The Fannie Farmer Cookbook, Betty Crocker, Joy of Cooking

Silicone Spatula

Never melt another rubber spatula again! Silicone spatulas are heat resistant to a high degree and go from mixing batters in a bowl to mixing sauces in a hot pot or pan. And they are perfect for use with non-stick cookware.

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