From Spoons to Garlic Presses
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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: $14, amazon.com.
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: $30, amazon.com.
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: Unfortunately, this item is currently sold out. A similar product can be found here.
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: $12, kitchenclique.com.
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: $49, surlatable.com.
From Spatulas to Thermometers
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Part wooden spoon, part rubber scraper, this do-it-all "spoonula" is strong enough to maneuver heavy doughs and flexible enough to get into jar corners. The round handle is comfortable in your hand.
To buy: $14, surlatable.com.
This gadget's blade-like tines slide through even firm, waxy potatoes. The curved head lets you mash with an efficient rocking motion and prevents clumping. And because the tool is small, it fits in two-quart pots.
To buy: $24, lamsonsharp.com.
Why transfer hot soup to the blender when you can bring the blender to the pot? This powerful wand (cord not shown) also comes with attachments perfect for whipping cream and chopping onions in a flash.
To buy: $99, amazon.com.
These classic shears will cut through anything, including chicken bones and lobster shells. The flexible plastic handle won't hurt hands―even when maximum pressure is applied―and works for lefties and righties.
To buy: $23, amazon.com.
This easy-to-read, shatterproof thermometer doesn't require batteries, unlike digital models. And when it needs to be recalibrated (as all thermometers do over time), making the adjustments is simple.
To buy: $7, kitchenandcompany.com.
From Y-Peelers to Deli Knives
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Even tricky mango skins slide off with this extra-sharp ceramic blade. And unlike metal peelers, this one won't rust or oxidize foods (causing them to turn brown). The side corers dig out potato eyes and other blemishes.
To buy: $10, kyoceraadvancedceramics.com.
Forget your past traumas with waiter-style corkscrews―this one works. The Teflon-coated "worm" winds smoothly into natural and synthetic corks, and the two-stage lever ensures they won't break while being removed.
To buy: $20, wineenthusiast.com.
Refills are a snap with this sleek mill, thanks to the oversize hole on the side that twists open to hold more than a cup of peppercorns. Cooks will love its range of fine to coarse grinds and its smooth, easy-to-clean exterior.
To buy: $45, unicornmills.com.
This digital timer lets you keep track of a roast in the oven, potatoes on the stovetop, and dough in the refrigerator―all at the same time. It's simple to set, and distinct alarm tones alert you when each dish is done.
To buy: Unfortunately, this item is currently sold out. A similar product can be found here.
The unusual offset handle lets you slice through pepperoni without rapping your knuckles on the cutting board, and the rounded serrated blade glides through triple-decker sandwiches and tender tomatoes alike.
To buy: $125, williams-sonoma.com.
From Tongs to Hand Juicers
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The springs in the hinges of these tongs respond with barely a squeeze, cutting down on fatigue when you need to open and close them for, say, sautéing spinach. Nonslip handles and scalloped tips give you a firm grip.
To buy: $13, oxo.com.
Most graters work in only one direction. This razor-sharp model cuts in two directions, so you can pull a piece of Parmesan back and forth to produce thin, fluffy shavings in half the time. The nonskid base stays put.
To buy: $17, bedbathandbeyond.com.
The fine mesh of these well-made two-handled colanders drains water quickly. A foot at the bottom ensures your pasta won't sit in the residual puddle in the sink. Use the small one as a flour sifter in a pinch.
To buy: $40 for a set of three (stainless steel), williams-sonoma.com.
No more dangerous edges. This revolutionary opener cuts into the side of a can, leaving a smooth ridge and a top you can lift straight off with bare hands. The ergonomic handle is a cinch to turn.
To buy: Unfortunately, this item is currently sold out. A similar product can be found here.
With this vibrantly colored, rustproof squeezer, juice lemons on one side of the green enamel plate and limes on the other. Ridges on the reamer help extract every last drop. The weighty handles give you lots of leverage.
To buy: $22, amazon.com.
