Next is a series of Williams-Sonoma silicone spatula/spoonulas (or as we called them in my house while I was growing up, rubber scrapers). I have had their clear silicone spoonula for more than four years and it is still in great shape and I use it nearly every day. I especially love the fact that the silicone head does not pull away from the wooden handle, making it impossible for mildew and other crud to grow down there.
I believe that every cook should have a garlic press. I have this one from Zyliss and it has served me well since college. I even accidentally ran it through the garbage disposal briefly once, and it didn't seem to do much harm (though it does still bear a few scars from the incident).
I have about six different sized skillets, but the one I turn to the very most is this 8-incher from Circulon. The non-stick surface is hardy and it conducts heat nicely. Most people recommend cast iron when someone asks for good, cheap pans, but I think that maintaining cast iron is more work than most new cooks want to get into.
I love my Ikea 365+ stock pot. It is fairly light weight, but has a hefty heat-conducting plate welded to the bottom, which means it rarely burns and conducts heat well. It's great for pasta, soups, stocks, stews and those times when you need an extra-large vessel (I sometimes make caramel popcorn in mine).
I did not grow up with Jelly Roll pans. The first time I encountered them was when I was an RA during college. We would often do crazy things like make Rice Krispy Treats for 75 people and these pans were my lifesaver during those times. However, I came to discover that you can do much more than make marshmallow squares on them and they have turned into my go-to baking sheets. I also like the fact that they are nearly impossible to destroy.
The last two items on my must-have list are a good whisk and a couple of sturdy wooden spoons. When it comes to whisks I like the thinner French-style ones because the work well in small bowls and pots. I recommend grabbing a few bamboo spoons for the cook on your list because the are long-lasting and made from a renewable resource.
In the pursuit of making this an interactive gift guide, why don't you tell me what you can't live without in the kitchen.
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