Natalie Morales' Top Kitchen Picks
Makes the Cut
"I have this cutting board set by the side of the sink at all times. It comes with plastic inserts to cut everything from meats, poultry, and produce to cheese. I love that I can scrub each sleeve and not worry about cross-contamination when I cook. It's brilliant."
Seville Classics Bamboo Cutting Board with 5 Color-Coded Flexible Cutting Mats, $30
Be Your Own Barista
"This investment piece is well worth it and makes the perfect latte, cappuccino, or espresso. It saves me money in the end because I make my cappuccino to go every morning and another espresso in the afternoon. Each pod costs about 50 cents, so if you do that math and calculate the savings, it's worth its price in gold."
Nespresso Essenza Mini, $149
"There's always one sentimental item in your kitchen because it's the heart of the home. My son made me a Star Wars-themed pot holder that's always close by."
Keep Avocados Fresh
"Living in California now, where avocados are always in season, there is always one half-eaten sitting in my fridge. To keep it from going brown, you simply place the uneaten half facedown [in an avocado keeper], and it keeps for a few extra days."
Evriholder Avo Saver, $7
Get the Knife That Does It All
"Anthony Bourdain said recently that having a bunch of knives is a waste of money—that in reality we all end up using one or two knives when cooking. It took his recommendation and got one really good 5-inch Global knife, and that's the knife I always reach for, no matter the job."
Global Chef's Prep Knife, $80
