Real Simple's Top 20 Kitchen Tools

Cooking becomes pure pleasure with these brilliantly engineered products.

From Spoons to Garlic Presses

Shown from left to right: 

Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons, $8

Unlike spoons on a ring, these stacking utensils separate easily, so you don't have to dirty the entire set if you need to use just one. The narrow ends fit into spice jars; the flat bottoms rest steady on a counter.
To buy: macys.com.

Zyliss Smart-Touch Salad Spinner, $30

A few pushes on the pop-up pump lets you dry greens effortlessly. When you're done, the lever folds flat for storage. Or just stow it full of washed greens in the refrigerator: The interior basket keeps lettuce fresh for days.
To buy: amazon.com.

Lamsonsharp Chef's Slotted Turner, $22 to $35

Designed for flipping fish, this spatula's beveled edges also glide under delicate eggs and cookies. The high-carbon/stainless-steel construction makes the tool sturdy enough to turn a half-pound burger or chop.
To buy: lamsonsharp.com.

Cuisipro Bamboo Handle Egg Whisk, $14

Good-bye, wrist strain. Whipping egg whites is a breeze with this light and exceptionally well-balanced tool. The heatproof handle has a comfortable grip and a loop for hanging, and it's gorgeous, too.
To buy: amazon.com.

Rosle Garlic Press, $39

This high-tech stainless-steel press works even on unpeeled cloves, crushing them with a single smooth motion. Unlike other presses, it doesn't leave half the garlic behind in the barrel. Even better, it actually rinses clean in the dishwasher.
To buy: surlatable.com.