The Home Chef's Kitchen

Spring is here! And you are dying to get into that sexy little sundress and those strappy sandals. There are striking similarities between wardrobes and kitchen tools, most stirringly that both have seasons; as sweaters are to soup bowls with root veggies, strapless tops are to sorbet ice cream makers and spring garden berries. The tools we use to prepare our meals fluctuate with the weather.

Chefs love kitchen tools and gadgets that make creating a fine meal fun and easy. Some kitchen essentials may seem like expensive investments, but making the smart purchase early on will save you hundreds over your lifetime. Some of the latest and greatest tools can inspire the makings of a superb dinner or decadent dessert. Investing in kitchen gadgets can become addictive and you may find yourself wanting more, but here’s our list of essential home chef tools:

Pots and Pans: All–Clad is tops, but Calphalon is great quality at a great price. Both brands even include steamers available in most sets. Lodge is a fabulous cast iron line with heavy duty wear, as well as heavy duty weight. Purchasing stainless steel or nonstick pans is a personal preference, but always be sure to toss out any nonstick tools that are chipping or peeling. Description: Brushed Stainless Steel 3–qt. Soup Pot with Lid and Ladle by All–Clad, $179.95.

Knives, Vegetable Peelers and Cutting Boards: Wusthof and Santoku are our favorite brands of knives, as well as Kyocera Ceramic knives and veggie peelers. Ceramic is very sharp and lightweight and should only be used on soft foods. Cutting boards come in wood, plastic, recycled materials and our favorite, bamboo, which is harder than wood, absorbs very little moisture and resists scarring from knives. As long as you clean and sanitize your cutting boards, they will last for years. Description: Wüsthof Classic 2-Piece Hollow-Edge Chef ’s Knife Set, $99.95.

Measuring Cups & Spoons and Digital Scales: There are countless styles, colors and materials to choose from, so this decision comes down to what feels best in your hands and the color scheme of your kitchen. We love stainless steel cups and spoons, as well as the Flex It Silicone measuring cup set, which is best for liquid measuring and pouring. If you’re a stickler for precision, you’ll need a small digital scale that weighs 0.1 ounce increments up to about 10 pounds; be sure to calibrate your scale often with a confirmed ½ or 1 pound weight. Description: Set of 5 All– Clad Measuring Cups, $50.

Nesting Mixing Bowls with Lids and Colanders: There are great all–in–one mixing bowls with lids and colanders by OXO Good Grips, which are perfect for limited spaces and keeping clutter minimized. Amazon is a great source for many kitchen necessities with better pricing. Description: OXO Good Grips 3–Piece Bowl and Colander Set in Red, $24.95.

Wooden Spoons, Spatulas, Whisks, Tongs, Thermometers and Timers: Cooking utensils are an extension of you—kind of like go–go gadget arms—as you create your special meals, and as you get familiar with the kitchen you’ll learn your personal preferences for tools. Wooden spoons are our first choice for stovetop cooking because they’re safe for nonstick and will last for years. Thin stainless steel is best for meats, omelets and pancakes. Description: Baker’s Secret Essentials 11" Silicone Whisk in Teal, $4.99.

Blenders and Mixers: These electronic kitchen icons often lead to good times— margaritas, cake, whipped cream. Vitamix is the best blender on the market and is well worth the price tag. The classic KitchenAid countertop mixer is a perennial favorite, and the variety of adapters will give you a lifetime of cooking, baking, pasta and ice cream making options. Description: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer in Aqua Sky, $349.95.