Whether you’re just getting started in the kitchen or getting into a consistent cooking groove with Fraîche Table, having the right tools makes all the difference. I’m all about making life simpler and saving time, and over the years, I’ve found a handful of tools that I reach for over and over again. These are my tried-and-true kitchen essentials — nothing extra, just the things that actually get used.
This guide is here to help you stock your kitchen with purpose, confidence, and ease.
A Quick Note Before We Dive In
Investing in quality over quantity is key. I’m not a fan of clutter, and I truly believe every item in your kitchen should earn its spot. A couple of solid knives, some durable cookware, and a few well-chosen tools can go a long way in making your cooking routine feel smoother and more joyful.
Utensils & Prep Tools
- Can Opener
A basic but essential tool — you’ll need this more often than you think!
- Garlic Press (optional)
A great time-saver that also brings out more flavour by finely puréeing the garlic.
- Box Grater
Simple, affordable, and super versatile for cheese, veggies, and more. Choose one that has a large grated side and a finely grated side.
- Good Knives
I recommend a sharp chef’s knife and a paring knife — they make prep faster, easier, and safer. Don’t forget a knife sharpener to keep them in top shape!
- Instant-Read Thermometer
This is a must for checking doneness — especially for meats. A digital one gives fast, accurate readings so you’re not left guessing.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
A set of dry measuring cups, a couple of liquid ones (small and large), and measuring spoons are non-negotiables for precision in cooking and baking.
- Microplane/Zester
Ideal for zesting citrus, grating Parmesan, or fresh ginger — much easier than other methods!
- Vegetable Peeler
Any basic one will do — just make sure it feels comfortable in your hand.
- Rubber Spatula
Great for scraping bowls clean and not wasting a single drop!
- Soup Ladle
Perfect for serving — though a mug works in a pinch too 😉
- Tongs
Super handy for flipping, tossing, or transferring food. I love the ones from OXO.
- Whisk
A medium-sized whisk is perfect for baking, sauces, or scrambled eggs.
- Wooden Spoons
I recommend having at least two — one with a flat edge and one with a rounded tip. They last forever with a bit of TLC (I season mine with mineral oil and hand wash them).
Cookware Staples
- Pots
Aim for 1 large, 2 medium, and 1 small pot. I love Paderno, Caraway, Our Place, and an enamel cast iron Dutch oven is a game-changer for soups and stews.
- Pans
I suggest 1 large and 2 medium ones. A mix of non-stick and cast iron or stainless steel is ideal. I love the Ballarini line, the Always Pan, or the ones from Caraway.
- Baking Sheets
I use these constantly — for roasting veggies, toasting nuts, and more. Have at least 2 large and 1 smaller one with rims.
- Baking Dishes
A 9×5” loaf pan, as well as an 8×8” and a 9×13” dish will cover most baking and casserole needs.
- Muffin Tins
Because muffins and egg bites are must-have in our house, a couple of standard sized muffin tins are essential.
Small Appliances I Love
- Blender
I use a Vitamix Ascent 3500, but any decent blender will do. Great for smoothies and sauces. I recommend getting one with a small capacity container if you can! It is great for salad dressings and sauces.
- Immersion Blender
I use this all the time for soups and sauces. Look for one with a mini food processor attachment for extra versatility.
- Food Processor (optional)
Not a must-have, but helpful for shredding and chopping during prep days. Some energy bite recipes in Fraîche Table will use this.
- Mixer
I have both a hand mixer (easier to store and affordable) and a stand mixer. Both are great for baking although you really only need one or the other!
- Digital Kitchen Scale (optional)
So helpful for precise measurements — especially if you’re baking. It’s small, affordable, and very handy.
- Waffle Iron (optional)
While not a necessity, we love to batch cook waffles and then keep them in the freezer. Pop them in the toaster or oven on a busy morning and you’ve got an easy breakfast!
- Toaster
No explanation needed. Practical and inexpensive.
- Slow Cooker (optional)
Ideal for hands-off cooking and prep-ahead meals. I use mine for soups, stews, and cozy one-pot meals. Look for one with a timer and a “keep warm” setting.
- Air Fryer (optional)
A great tool for crisping up foods with less oil. Perfect for roasting veggies, reheating leftovers, or quick dinners. I recommend one with a larger basket or dual basket for family meals.
Other Handy Tools & Extras
- Mixing Bowls
Stackable, ideally with lids — I use mine daily in various sizes.
- Salad Spinner
A handy tool if you prep a lot of greens (you’ll find a lot of salad and leafy veggie recipes on Fraîche Table!). It keeps lettuce fresh longer and makes salad nights so much easier.
- Citrus Juicer or Reamer
This small, inexpensive tool helps you get the most out of your juicing.
- Cutting Boards
A large one is essential. Wood ones need occasional oiling; I also keep plastic ones on hand for easy sanitizing since they are dishwasher-safe.
- Storage Containers
I swear by glass containers in multiple sizes — I recommend buying all the same brand so they stack well.
- Glass Jars
I love to elevate meals with homemade sauces, dressings and spice mixes; Weck or Bernardin jars are my favourite for storing these staples!
- Colander & Sieve
A large colander and a medium fine-mesh sieve cover most needs.
- Oven Mitts
Protect your hands with a good-quality, heat-resistant pair (bonus: choose a pattern or colour that sparks joy, you’ll use them a lot).
- Aluminum Foil & Parchment Paper
Staples for lining pans, wrapping food, or saving on cleanup.
- Wraps
Try beeswax wraps as a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap!
Ready to Get Cooking?
Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your kitchen essentials, I hope this list gives you a solid foundation for a well-equipped space. But the real secret to cooking consistently at home? Having a plan. My meal plan, Fraîche Table, takes the guesswork out of mealtime with thousands of delicious recipes, ready-to-go meal plans, and grocery lists done for you.
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