Kitchen Basics
Cutting Boards
You can read conflicting studies about which is healthier: wood or plastic cutting boards. I like the feel of wood better and believe the plastic ones can dull your knives faster. However, the plastic ones are awfully nice for throwing in the dishwasher so I have each. I use one specific board for cutting meat so I don't transfer germs. I have a big wooden cutting board that I use for rolling out pie crusts, calzones, and cookies but a smaller one works great for making sandwiches, slicing cheese, and the like.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Get a set of measuring cups and spoons that feel good in your hand. You could get by with just a set of basic measuring cups if you have to, but it's easier if you can get one set for dry ingredients and one set for liquid ingredients. The dry set you'll use to scoop up dry ingredients, then use a flat knife to scrape off the extra. These generally come in metal or plastic. I prefer the metal. The liquid ones you'll want in a few sizes, at least the 1 cup and 2 cup to get started. I also have a 1 quart size but could live without it if I had to. You can get glass or plastic. Again, I prefer glass.
Colander
I have a few different colanders. The largest one is great for draining pasta, artichokes, and other large quantities. I have two smaller ones, both handed down from my mom. One is great for rinsing berries, grapes, and other smaller things. The other has a finer screen-like mesh. I use it for straining broth by placing it over a large bowl or jar and then pouring the broth through it.
Baking Dishes
You can spend a lot of money on pretty baking dishes. And they're fun, if you've got the extra money. If you're on a lean budget, you need at least a couple of dishes with lids that can go in the microwave and oven. I like the white Corningware dishes. They look pretty and go with anything and have lasted me for years.
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