Kitchen gadgets worth the splurge

Through the years, this ShopAtHome.com foodie has asked a handful of professional chefs across the nation about their favorite kitchen tools – along with the kitchen items that are worth splurging on.

The first answer? Invest in a great set of knives. While it might seem unusual, a sharp blade is actually not only better for cooking, but also keep you safer. Struggling to cut anything from bagels to meat with a dull knife results in many accidents each year.

A few other favorites? Invest in a great mixer, along with a sturdy blender. Many chefs also mention mandolin and microplaner, which can do everything from thinly slice potatoes to zest a lemon perfectly.

One other kitchen implement we tend to take for granted is the cutting board. Invest in one made of maple, walnut, acacia or teak, and it will last for years.

Finally, a really great set of pans will cook food more evenly, and while the price tag might make you wince, something like a cast-iron frying pan will last you a lifetime. That inexpensive number you picked up a year ago? It’s not looking too great these days, is it?

Start with the morning routine. The BlendTec Designer 625 Blender is as tough as they come, and it comes in a multitude of colors. BlendTec Designer 625 Blender, $479.99 (plus up to 3% Cash Back), Bedbathandbeyond.com

You can’t beat the KitchenAid 5 quart stand mixer (a “serious” chef can find a bigger model). It will help you with all your baking and cooking needs for years to come. KitchenAid 5 Quart Stand Mixer, $349.99 and up (plus 1% Cash Back), Target.com

This Martha Stewart Acacia Round Board serves many functions. Sure, you can slice and dice on it, but it helps keeps germs away. Its handy handle will allow you to serve a plate of appetizers on it as well. Martha Stewart Acacia Round Board, on sale $49.99 (plus 3% Cash Back), Macys.com

One great knife may be all you need. This Santoku sturdy knife, that will slice through everything from veggies to meat. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Professional “S” 7-Inch Granton Edge Santoku Knife, $119.99 (plus Cash Back), Bedbathandbeyond.com