Kitchen Equipment Basics: Assorted Kitchen Tools

Good Chef makes a set of four nesting cups, some with measuring spoons incorporated into the handles, that can help conserve space, if you don’t have too much of it. Available in supermarkets. If you’re feeling spendy, there are also sets of collapsible silicon cups that come in great colors, for about $20.

Pyrex two-cup measuring cup: Lots of measuring capacity, good for measuring liquids. It also makes a good spoon and spatula holder, once you’ve finished measuring ingredients and have begun cooking.

Paper towel holder: I’ve been known to spill things, occasionally, and I hate wet edges on my unused paper towels.

Large slotted spoon and large regular spoon: Available in supermarkets.

Splatter guard: Makes cleaning up a lot easier, if you’re cooking anything that splatters, like bacon. Available in supermarkets.