2019 Holiday Gift Guides

It can be challenging to shop for a home cook because the magic they create in the kitchen leads you to believe they have everything they could ever need. But these staple items are always a winner when shopping for your favorite home cook and farmer’s market-goer.

Every item is from Amazon, and I added current pricing to help you shop smart, but with all the deals in the upcoming weeks, you may see a better price when you click through.

If you see something you like that’s a bit outside your price range, track the price using Honey, my favorite online-shopping tool!

1. Epicurean Cutting Board ($20): We got a set of these cutting boards as part of our wedding registry and I can attest they stand the test of time. I use them daily and usually wash them in the dishwasher and they still look brand new!
2. Nothing Fancy ($20): Alison Roman’s new cookbook is already a bestseller for a great reason. Her first cookbook, Dining In, was a hit last year (have you made The Cookies?) Her cooking style is approachable, yet showstopping.
3. Mixing Bowls ($25): Every cook needs a set of mixing bowls. I love the metal versions because they are easy to clean, lightweight, and stackable so they don’t take up much room in your cabinet.
4. Dutch Oven ($75): My LeCreuset Dutch oven is my most-used pot for beans and pasta, soups, and making bread. This lower-budget option is the perfect gift.
5. Stasher Bags ($20): Reusable storage bags that can go in the freezer and the microwave? Yes, please.
6. Kitchen Towels ($10): Every kitchen needs more simple towels, especially this time of year. The waffle-textured ones are my favorite for counter-wiping and dish-drying.
7. Baking Mats ($14): It took me a long time to buy baking mats for myself and they’re a game-changer that makes cleanup a breeze. I’ve been using these Amazon brand mats for over a year now for everything from cookies to granola to chicken.
8. Saveur Magazine ($10/year): My favorite food magazine. I learn so much with each issue and devote an entire morning to digesting the entire thing in one sitting.

1. Ruffage ($20): Dan got me this book for my birthday and I devoured it front to back. Aside from the stunning photos, the book includes tips for choosing and storing all kinds of produce and hundreds of recipe variations.
2. Market Totes ($15): Delicately transport your market goodies home with these large-capacity, washable bags that are easy to store when you’re not shopping.
3. Maldon Sea Salt ($25): a cook’s secret weapon is great salt. Maldon is known as the top choice for chefs around the world. A sprinkle adds flavor to the spectacular produce in your friend’s kitchen.
4. Quarter-sheet Pans ($22): the perfect size for prepping ingredients, roasting squash, and baking a small batch of cookies.
5. Salad Spinner ($23): The fresh herbs and greens brought back from the market won’t be any good unless they’re well-washed. This spinner is high-powered to fully dry and fluff your favorite greens.
6. Chef’s Knives ($89): Every good chef needs a good chef’s knife. These are my favorite choice and a set of two makes for a perfect gift.
7. Whole Food Cooking Every Day ($20): This book is at the top of my wish list, with recipes and techniques for eating well every single day.