Fit Gifts: Gifts for healthy cooking

Most weekdays, I'm a three-step cook. If it can't get done in less than 30 minutes and 3-steps, I don't want anything to do with it. But creating healthy meals usually takes a few extra steps -- chopping vegetables, making a salad, washing and cleaning fresh ingredients -- so having the right tools in the kitchen is definitely a must. If you need some last minute gift ideas for a friend who loves to find kitchen-friendly gear under the tree, then these ideas are for you:

• I adore my Cuisinart Mini-Prep food processor. It cuts chopping time in half, especially for veggie heavy foods like soup, and is simple to clean.
• Every cook needs a decent knife. These are more decent than most, but even if they aren't in your budget, you get the picture.
• Want to give a sustainable gift that keeps on giving? Consider a CSA membership. Your loved one will get fresh, organic, local produce for an entire growing season.
• A mandolin lets the creative cook cut fruit and veggies in uniform slices, unlike the food processor.
  
• It's so cliche, but I use my salad spinner every day. I've yet to find a method that dries lettuce as well, and I can store my chopped greens right inside.

Healthy eating isn't hard, but passing up those quick convenience food is easier when you have the right tools at hand.



See more fit gifts!