8 Essential Panini Tools…and Big OXO Giveaway!

Truth be told, you don’t need much more than a good pan to make panini. That said…I’ve found some simple, inexpensive tools that have made panini-making a whole lot easier (and tastier!) for me over the years. Today I’d like to share with you my 8 Essential Panini Tools – what they’re good for and why I use them.

Plus, one lucky reader will have the chance to win ALL 8 TOOLS, thanks to OXO (worth more than $100!). The giveaway details are at the end of this post!

* * *

1312480_Electric Grill_Panini Press BrushSilicone Grill Brush

Many grills come equipped with their own grill scraper, but for those that don’t, you will probably find a silicone grill brush very helpful when it comes time to clean your panini press. The soft-yet-firm bristles make it easy to scrape up the cooked-on bits that can get trapped between the grates without damaging the nonstick coating.

* * *

1158800_Digital Leave-In ThermometerMeat Thermometer

If you’re going to grill meats on your panini press, I highly recommend using a meat thermometer. It’s the easiest and most reliable way to ensure that meat is cooked to the desired temperature. With the OXO model I have, it’s easy for me to set the temperature (it comes with preset USDA and chef recommendations), insert the probe into the meat I’m grilling, place the meat on the panini press, close the lid, and wait until the thermometer beeps to tell me that the meat is done. It eliminates all of the guesswork, and I don’t lose any heat by having to open the lid repeatedly to check for doneness.

* * *

26581_Cheese PlaneCheese Plane

You can, of course, buy pre-sliced cheese but it tends to melt and layer more easily when you slice it yourself. A basic cheese plane or slicer is relatively inexpensive (this one, from OXO, sells for $10). You want one that is comfortable to grip, and with a metal blade that can stand up to slicing firmer cheeses without bending itself out of shape.

* * *

1122280_Container GraterCheese Grater

Yes, slicing your own cheese is usually best, but I do grate some cheeses, especially Parmesan and other harder cheeses that take longer to melt. Go for a good quality cheese grater with sharp blades and a non-slip grip. You can also use the grater for zesting lemons and limes as well as for finely grating garlic and onions.

* * *

1071061_1132900_Silicone Basting BrushSilicone Basting Brush

For brushing olive oil onto bread, vegetables, black bean patties, and more, a silicone basting or pastry brush is a useful tool. It distributes oil evenly and goes right into the dishwasher for cleanup.

* * *

1068558_Pro 8in Bread KnifeSerrated Knife

A sturdy serrated knife will allow you to slice through your panini cleanly without placing undue pressure on your ingredients. I alternate between using a bread knife, like the one pictured here, and an offset type which you’ll often see used in cafés and restaurants. An offset design allows you to bring the knife all the way down to the cutting board without your knuckles getting in the way.

* * *

1054628_12in Tongs w Nylon Heads_blackSilicone Spatula and Tongs

Everything you place on the grill has to come off at some point. For this task, you’ll want a silicone spatula and silicone tongs. They easily lift your food without causing any damage to the nonstick surface of the panini press. These are probably the two cooking tools I use most often in my kitchen.

* * *

** WIN ALL 8 ESSENTIAL PANINI TOOLS, FROM OXO!! **

OXO would like to send one lucky Panini Happy reader a set of all 8 of my Essential Panini Tools (valued at more than $100).

  • To enter: Leave a comment on this post, telling us your favorite go-to cooking tool.
  • For an optional bonus entry: Sign up for my Panini Happy e-mail list, and leave a comment to let me know. (Existing subscribers, just leave a comment letting me know you’ve already subscribed)

The giveaway will close on Monday, June 24, 2013 at 12:00 PM PDT. I will use random.org to select one winner and announce the winner in this post. I will contact the winner via e-mail – if I don’t receive a response within 5 days I will draw another name. My apologies to my international readers, the prize can only be shipped to U.S. addresses.

Many thanks to OXO for providing the prize for this giveaway. I was not compensated in any way, and my opinions are, as always my own. Panini Happy receives a portion of the purchases made via the Amazon affiliate links in this post – many thanks for your support!

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KathyPanini Happy, online since 2008, is more than just a sandwich blog. Here, you'll find hundreds of my original panini recipes, my guide to choosing a panini press and a whole lot of other creative uses for the panini press.
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205 Comments

  1. sara wrote:

    My fav go-to cooking tool would have to be my microplane grater!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  2. Ann wrote:

    My melon baller – for making perfect cookies every time.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  3. Erica wrote:

    I couldn’t live without my silicon spatula. I’d love to have all of these tools in my kitchen!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  4. I love tongs. Not sure I could cook without them anymore.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  5. Erin wrote:

    I love my dutch oven!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  6. Erin wrote:

    My Grandma’s cast iron skillets! I cook everything in them.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  7. Mary Beth Elderton wrote:

    My favorite tool has to be my chef’s knife–I rarely even put it away.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  8. Mary Beth Elderton wrote:

    I subscribed via email

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  9. Kelly D wrote:

    I like my hand mixer, I use it often to make pancakes.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  10. Kelly D wrote:

    I subscribe to your email under kellywcuATyahooDOTcom

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  11. Isa Blasio wrote:

    My silicone spatula or my measuring cups are the tools I use nearly every day!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  12. Holly B wrote:

    My fave tool is my mandolin; it makes slicing veggies so much faster!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  13. Carolsue wrote:

    My digital meat thermometer — without it, I’d have no idea when my steaks (or chicken or pork) are done!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  14. Carolsue wrote:

    I subscribe to your newsletter via e-mail.
    Digicats {at} Sbcglobal {dot} Net

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  15. kristin wrote:

    I love my beautiful Global knives!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  16. Becca Entenberg wrote:

    My favorite cooking tool is a wooden spoon!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  17. Margie Wolczak wrote:

    My cutting boards and my sharp tomato knife.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  18. Kathy S wrote:

    I love my food chopper.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  19. Annie H wrote:

    My mini food processor. It just saves so much time on things like chopping onion, and yet it’s super small and easy to clean.

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  20. Elisa B wrote:

    Definitely tongs. Great for cooking, grilling, juicing lemons, etc. etc. 🙂

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  21. Irene wrote:

    My fave tool is my mandolin; it makes slicing veggies so much faster!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  22. My favorite tool is the silicone garlic peeler. Need another one for my pro kitchen!!

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  23. My favorite tool is the silicone garlic peeler. Can´t cook without it! Tips on buying another one, anyone?

    Posted 6.17.13 Reply
  24. Marlene wrote:

    I hate to admit that my favorite took has been my mini food chopper (also by OXO) … makes me seem like I’m lazy, but that thing does wonders with onions and garlic!! Love it!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  25. Marlene wrote:

    I’m a subscriber … button_patch {at} hotmail {dot} com

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  26. Coleen w wrote:

    My all time fav kitchen tool is my spatulas. Use them all time to get all the nibbles and never leave anything behind.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  27. Scott M wrote:

    My good knife is indispensable (picked it up in Italy awhile back, don’t know the brand)

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  28. Scott M wrote:

    subscribed! Great resources!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  29. Annalise wrote:

    Having a basting brush definitely makes grilling easier and less messy!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  30. Jerri wrote:

    I love my kitchen scale.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  31. Jenny Hartin wrote:

    I want to win these! My favorite go to is my grater – I use it all the time.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  32. Jenny Hartin wrote:

    I subscribe by e-mail!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  33. Hildi Valenzano wrote:

    It would be a toss-up..my chef’s knife, my oversized spatula and tongs..always in reach.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  34. Deborah wrote:

    My everyday go to tool is called a clamata. It is used to attach as a handle to a sufaria ( a wide lipped aluminum pan) used here in Kenya!

    It is like a tong that clips on to hold the pot in place when stirring or for transferring the pan from the fire.

    I am already subscribed and LOVING Paninihappy!!!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  35. Shelly wrote:

    I love my Microplane zester!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  36. Shelly wrote:

    I’m an email subscriber.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  37. Lynne L wrote:

    I know this will sound crazy, but my Panini Press is my favorite! We have removable grates that flip over (Cuisinart) so it works as a griddle too – – it is awesome for everything!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
    • Lynne L wrote:

      I’m on this email/blog list – – Kathy does a great job with this!!!!

      Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  38. Laura wrote:

    I love my sharp knife and cutting board

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  39. Judi wrote:

    My favorite kitchen tool is my Kitchen Aid Mixer, I use it all the time – but especially for Homemade Bread to make my Husband’s sandwiches for lunch during the week. He would LOVE to take a Panini to work!

    I follow you on Pinterest and am subscribed via e-mail-

    Love your posts!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  40. MaryBeth wrote:

    My large cookie scoop! I use it for cookies, cupcake batter, portioning mashed potatoes, making uniform sized meatballs, the list goes on and on 🙂

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  41. MaryBeth wrote:

    I’m already an email subscriber – thanks!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  42. Gary Sutphin wrote:

    just now getting started with my new panini press. seeing this give me some ideas as to some of the items that I will need in the future that I have not thought of as yet. thanks as I really enjoy your website.Pplease make sure to enter me into your contest.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  43. Janet wrote:

    I have to say a good chef knife and cheese plane are some of my favorite tools in the kitchen!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  44. Paul Laincz wrote:

    My favorite go to is my Wusthof Santoku 7 Inch Knife.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  45. Veronica wrote:

    I am already a subscriber and my favorite cooking tool is my silicone spatula because it scrapes the bowl(s) nice and clean..

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  46. Glenda wrote:

    My favourite kitchen tool is my lemon juicer. It measures, it keeps out the seeds and it’s cute!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  47. Deb wrote:

    My favorite go to cooking tool is the microplane grater, i use it for cheese, nutmeg, garlic, all kinds of things.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  48. barbara n wrote:

    My favorite cooking tool is my paring knife…I finally invested in a good one!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  49. barbara n wrote:

    I am an email subscriber to panini happy

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  50. LeslieBee wrote:

    I have a big silicone “spoonula” that gets quite a workout.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  51. Simone wrote:

    I love my cheese grater, couldn’t live without it! A freshly grated parmesan is delicious and not in the same category as a store grated one. I’m already a subscriber.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  52. Christina wrote:

    Lately it’s been my blender for smoothies and agua frescas.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  53. Larissa wrote:

    My favorite tool is my cookie scoop. I use it for everything! Filling muffin tins, making meatballs, of course cookies…and so much more!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  54. Robbi wrote:

    I use my silicone spatula most.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  55. Robbi wrote:

    I am an email subscriber.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  56. Christina wrote:

    I also subscribe to your email.
    Thanks!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  57. Melissa wrote:

    I love my pastry cutter for mixing butter into flour!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  58. Johnnie Whitford wrote:

    my go to would be my grater

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  59. Jessie C. wrote:

    I like my iron skillet

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  60. Jessie C. wrote:

    I am a subscriber

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  61. Lois Reinke wrote:

    I am a subscriber to Panini Happy email.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  62. Melissa Layman wrote:

    My favorite tools are my knife set, I use it almost every time I cook, and my tongs. I never realized how useful they were until I had a set and wore them out. Now I have several pairs in various sizes for multiple uses!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  63. Jacqui wrote:

    My favorite cooking tool is my basic rubber spatula! I use it all the time whether I am baking, cooking, etc. It definitely gets the most use in my kitchen!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  64. Jacqui wrote:

    I am already subscribed to your emails!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  65. Nessa wrote:

    Flexible spatulas!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  66. Nessa wrote:

    I’m subscribed!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  67. Ericka wrote:

    I love my tongs. I use them all the time for everything!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  68. I couldn’t survie without my kitchen aid mixer and food processer

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  69. Ericka wrote:

    I am a long-time subscriber!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  70. I am subscribed

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  71. Mike B wrote:

    My tongs are the most utilized tools in my kitchen. Second place, my Chicago Cutlery.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  72. Mike B wrote:

    I’m a subscriber to your list and enjoy it immensely.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      I’m glad to hear it – thanks, Mike!

      Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  73. Michele wrote:

    wooden spoon

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  74. Michele wrote:

    signed up for the email list – thanks!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  75. Maria wrote:

    Favorite tool…probably the food processor because I can chop, slice, grate, mix doughs, etc. Very versatile.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  76. Nick wrote:

    Rubber coated 3 inch spatula. It’s invaluable, useful on every surface, and can do a variety of things like chopping and flipping.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  77. Dianne wrote:

    My favorite kitchen tool has to be my tongs. It seems like I am always reaching for them!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  78. Carole wrote:

    My kitchen would be incomplete without my wooden spoons.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  79. Carole wrote:

    I’m a subscriber.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  80. Amanda Christensen wrote:

    My favorite cooking tool is my set of Gerber knives. We got them as a wedding gift 22 years ago and they still look (and perform) like new.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  81. Jean wrote:

    My favorite kitchen tool used most often is my silicone spatula. I use it for making salads with mayo – gets a large amount out of the jar, mixes everything then scrapes every last bit out of the bowl.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  82. Jean wrote:

    I’m already a subscriber. Love your column. I print out most of your recipes and keep them in a notebook.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Thank you so much, Jean – that’s really nice to hear. 🙂

      Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  83. Daphne wrote:

    Definitely a pair of chopsticks. They’re super versatile and how the heck do you pick up a swimming noodle with a fork anyways?!?

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  84. jackie huvane wrote:

    A good chefs knife and s wine opener!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  85. jackie huvane wrote:

    I subscribe to the email list

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  86. Rose S. wrote:

    My favorite kitchen tool is my good knife. I would be lost without it.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  87. Rose S. wrote:

    I am a subscriber and enjoy your newsletters.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Thanks so much, Rose – I’m glad you enjoy them. 🙂

      Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  88. Erin R. wrote:

    Ooh, that grill brush looks neat! I always have trouble cleaning my grill plates really well.

    Hmm, I think it’s a tie between my stick blender and my good santoku knife. It’s the very first good knife I’ve used in my life and it completely changed cooking for me.

    Great list!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  89. Erin R. wrote:

    I also have an e-mail subscription.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  90. jenn b. wrote:

    my kitchen knives, they get the most use out of any tool that I have

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  91. Wendy N wrote:

    Definitely my chef’s knife!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  92. Larry wrote:

    I have 3 g0-to tools: the basting brush, the tongs, and the spatula — all OXO. I can’t pick just one. Also, I am already signed up as an e-mail recipient from Panni Happy. That is how I learned about this “8 Esssential Panni Tools article.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  93. Larry wrote:

    I have 3 g0-to tools: the basting brush, the tongs, and the spatula — all OXO. I can’t pick just one. Also, I already receive Panni Happy e-mails.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  94. Teresa Young wrote:

    My go-to cooking tool is my thin egg turner spatula.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  95. Caddie T. wrote:

    I love my micro planer. I use it almost every day!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  96. Neena wrote:

    I can’t live without my Vitamix which I use just about every day for various dishes like smoothies, sauces and soups. Love your site and am already subscribed to e-mail. Thank you!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  97. Elizabeth wrote:

    My new favorite tool to use is my new garnishing set – melon baller, grater, channel knife, spiral cutter, etc…having fun just playing with my food!

    other than that it’s my Cutco Knives – they are still as sharp as the day I got them 15 years ago.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  98. Elizabeth wrote:

    I have subscribed to the newsletter too.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  99. Sheilah C wrote:

    My favorite go to kitchen tool is probably my garlic press. You can’t beat it!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  100. Lynda Del wrote:

    Love my Ninja blender.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  101. Corisa wrote:

    spatula !

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  102. Cecilia E wrote:

    My grill brush is by far my favorite. I love the easy no hassle clean up.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  103. Cecilia E wrote:

    I just subscribed!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  104. Evelyn R wrote:

    I have a silicon spoon that I use all the time

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  105. Babs wrote:

    Tongs! I really hadn’t considered how many times a day, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, that I grab for tongs. Really the most useful tool in my drawer.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  106. Babs wrote:

    I all ready subscribe to panini happy by email.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  107. susie bowden wrote:

    my oxo tongs

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  108. Sue Simmons wrote:

    Hi, I am new to the Panini business and can use all the help to be given. Plus I am a tool junky so don’t ask me to narrow it down! Sue S.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  109. Laura wrote:

    I subscribe to your email newsletter.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  110. Laura wrote:

    Oh gosh, I have to just pick one?? I guess I would say my wooden spoons. I think I use them every time I walk into the kitchen!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  111. Faye wrote:

    Probably my LONG handle spatula for turning burgers…

    I already subscribe to your newsletter…love your site!!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  112. Isla wrote:

    Silicone spatulas!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  113. Isla wrote:

    I love my silicone spatulas!

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  114. Debby wrote:

    Hard to pick, but I would have to say my favorite cooking tool is my rubber spatula.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  115. Mona wrote:

    I subscribe to your email.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  116. Mona wrote:

    My favorite cooking tools are my set of pampered chef knives

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  117. Heather wrote:

    My favorite cooking tools are my cast iron skillets and my slow cooker.

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  118. zhezhe wrote:

    Love my tongs and a good knife

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  119. zhezhe wrote:

    I subscribed too 🙂

    Posted 6.18.13 Reply
  120. Oh I wish I could join the giveaway, but I am not in the Us. -_-
    Oxo kitchen tools are available here but they are imported and not that commonly available yet. All foodies in India are waiting impatiently for oxo to enter the Indian market, I know everybody is looking for pretty and handy kitchen tools.

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  121. Amy wrote:

    My grandmothers cast iron pan. Can’t cook withou it.

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  122. debra lewis wrote:

    I am a newbie with my recent purchase of the panini press and am so excited to have found you and your panini~happy blog site!! You have been amazing with all the great recipes and tips for all your followers. I have just added this meat thermometer from OXO to my cart and expect it will be used often. Can’t wait to try out some of those delish-looking sandwiches you have concocted!! Thanks for all you do Kathy!!! <3

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      That’s terrific, Debra – thanks so much! The meat thermometer is so helpful – have fun!

      Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  123. debra lewis wrote:

    I am already a subscriber and have enjoyed your newsletters very much!!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  124. Gail wrote:

    My favorite cooking tool is my son who is just starting to love to cook!!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  125. Gail wrote:

    signed up for the email

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  126. My silicone brush

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  127. erin wrote:

    the good ole wooden spoon!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  128. Laura R wrote:

    Definitely our Chef’s knife!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  129. Terrell wrote:

    Silicone baking cups! So easy 🙂

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  130. Terrell wrote:

    Email Subscribed!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  131. Shewanna wrote:

    For every recipe I pull out my silicon spatula, tongs and my wooden cutting board!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  132. sara wrote:

    My favorite tool is an awesome spatula. It is better than any other one I own!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  133. sara wrote:

    I am also an email subscriber

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  134. puja wrote:

    my hand blender & my oxo tongs!!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  135. Michelle wrote:

    I’d say my mini spatula–we make a lot of cookies around here!

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  136. Theresa J wrote:

    I love my Joseph Joseph Uni-tool, 5-In-1 Utensil

    Posted 6.19.13 Reply
  137. anne villeneuve wrote:

    My favorite tool is my 5 bladed herb scissor, slices up fresh herbs so quick and easy .Anyone that uses fresh herbs must get a pair!

    I see your book is due to be released this fall, I expect to see one of those under my Xmas tree this year!

    Of course I’m a subscriber!
    Anne villeneuve
    Ottawa Canada

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  138. Amy S wrote:

    I love my wisk!

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  139. Amy S wrote:

    I subscribe via email

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  140. Lori wrote:

    Digital scale. Once you start using one, you wonder how you ever cooked with out it!

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  141. Lori wrote:

    I subscribe via e-mail. Thanks so much.

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  142. Margot C wrote:

    I can’t cope in the kitchen without my silicone spatulas (I have about 6 of them, maybe more – all red!)

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  143. Margot C wrote:

    I’m on your email list now (let’s cook!)

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  144. Meghan Finley wrote:

    mandolin slicer

    Posted 6.20.13 Reply
  145. Nicole wrote:

    Trying to decide on my favorite kitchen tool is a lot harder than one thinks. I have several favorites, but the one I reach for the most I believe would have to be my silicone spatulas. I use them for everything, and I use them in place of spoons a lot! haha

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  146. Nicole wrote:

    I signed up for your newsletter! Thanks!

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  147. sharon wrote:

    My microplane zester (love it for garlic)

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  148. sharon wrote:

    I am a new email subscriber. Thank you!

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  149. TaraUB wrote:

    I guess my grill. I grill year round and live in Indiana, so it’s not always warm here. For me, it’s the ease of clean up. Plus, the house we lived in for 10 years had a tiny kitchen that was not conducive to cooking, so it was my outdoor kitchen.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  150. Gini wrote:

    Actually, I think of my panini press as my favorite tool!

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  151. Gini wrote:

    I also subscribed to the newsletter …

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  152. Robin wrote:

    Outdoor Grill, use it almost every day…winter, spring, summer and fall

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  153. Jeffrey wrote:

    Not sure if its considered a tool but I love my baking stone!

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  154. I so enjoy cooking, but I’m intimidated when it comes to grilling… I LOVE this Panini grilling idea. I don’t own one YET !!! It’s on my list. My favorite “go to” tool are Tongs…

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  155. Maralea wrote:

    My favorite is my cookie dough scooper!

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  156. Venessa Martin wrote:

    My favorite go to tool is my pizza cutter. Not only does it cut pizzas but sandwiches, pancakes and waffles too saving me lots of time.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  157. Diana Funk wrote:

    My non-stick pan

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  158. Denise M wrote:

    locking tongs are my go to tool of choice

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  159. kathy boyd wrote:

    I use my silicone spatula daily.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  160. Marina wrote:

    It is so hard to choose one tool since I love my whole kitchen! I have so many gadgets and use them all! but I must come to my microplane and a good set of sharp knives. I have a set that goes with me everywhere. Whenever I go to a friend’s house, somehow I always find my way to their kitchen helping around.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  161. shmidy wrote:

    my fork and knife,i dont go to a BBQ without them both

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  162. Kathy Eyre wrote:

    I have these steak knives that I bought at the state fair 20 years ago and they are still as sharp as the day I bought them. I have no idea who makes them, but I love them.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  163. SharonF wrote:

    For a go-to grilling tool, it would be my expandable grill basket. Vegetables, fish, sliders or hot dogs can all cook at once and they are easy to flip without losing anything through the grates. For an all purpose tool, it would be my iron skillets.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  164. Ken L wrote:

    I love using silicone spatulas, great for cooking and cleaning out mixing bowls.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  165. Jen W. wrote:

    My go-to cooking tool is my bamboo spoons and spatulas.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  166. Jen W. wrote:

    I’m an email subscriber.

    Posted 6.21.13 Reply
  167. Yelena wrote:

    My fave is my tongs. I do everything with them

    Posted 6.22.13 Reply
  168. Stephanie wrote:

    I signed up for your newsletter. I just found this website today and I love it.

    Posted 6.22.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Thanks so much, Stephanie – welcome!

      Posted 6.22.13 Reply
  169. Calli wrote:

    I love my rubber stapula!

    Posted 6.22.13 Reply
  170. Susan Christy wrote:

    My garlic press – I don’t like mincing garlic.

    Posted 6.22.13 Reply
  171. HilLesha wrote:

    My favorite kitchen tool is the Chef’n VeggiChop Vegetable Chopper. 🙂

    Posted 6.23.13 Reply
  172. Suzanne wrote:

    My Silpat baking pan liner, nothing sticks and you can make everything from isomalt bubble sugar decor to crispy cheese discs… Easy to use easy to clean easy to store…love it

    Posted 6.23.13 Reply
  173. Renee G wrote:

    My favorite go-to tool is a small metal spatula. It’s great for serving cake, brownies, and other treats.

    Posted 6.23.13 Reply
  174. Mindy wrote:

    My go-to cooking tool(s) are wooden spoons! I use them for everything and never have to worry about scratching my pots and pans. 🙂

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  175. Jessica W wrote:

    Amazingly that OXO silicon Spatula is the best one that I have yet to find

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  176. For things like the Panini Press, my favorite tool to have on hand is a toothbrush. They come in handy for brushing out anything missed in the curves and corners. They’re also great for when your electric can opener eventually gets gummed up, the little nooks and crannies in your food processor bowl, etc.

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  177. Debbie wrote:

    My favorite go-to cooking tool are tongs.

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  178. Marie wrote:

    My favorite tool is my immersion blender. I make smoothies daily and the cleanup is quick.

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  179. Berry wrote:

    Oh goodness, that’s a hard question. I mean, my favorite chef’s knife (and honing/sharpening stuff) is THE essential kitchen tool. But if you mean besides the basics, my Zyliss avocado tool stays in the dish drainer, and I have 3 sizes of microplane graters that also rarely make it out of the drainer and into their assigned spots. For gadgets, my panini press/griddle and my electric water kettle would fight it out for supremacy.

    Hmmm… Actually, after blathering, I think I’d nominate my largest dinner fork. After my knives, or possibly before, it is my most used kitchen tool. It mixes and stirs, lifts like a small spatula, makes impromptu tongs, spears stuff out of jars, and I can use it to eat dinner too.

    the avocado thingie is this one
    http://www.amazon.com/Zyliss-12550-Avocado-Tool/dp/B00421ATN6
    knife/slotted spoon all in one

    Posted 6.24.13 Reply
  180. Ashley wrote:

    My favorite tool (and my husband totally teases me for this) is a pair of super long tongs. It makes me less nervous to have a little room between me and things that are right on the fire 🙂

    Posted 6.25.13 Reply
  181. A quality cheese grater is always in use in my house 🙂

    Posted 7.1.13 Reply
  182. Katie Orr wrote:

    Great contest!! My favorite go to kitchen tool would be my mini-kitchen utensils!! They are perfect size for me!!

    Posted 7.1.13 Reply
  183. Jean R wrote:

    My favorite tool or tools has to be my grater/zester and my tongs especially for grilling tongs do not pierce the meat or fish causing them to lose valuable juices and the zester grater tops all with cheese or a quick zest burst of flavor

    Posted 7.18.13 Reply
  184. Mary F. Ellison wrote:

    I think my “go to” tool would have to be my tongs … they’re now like an extension of my arm!

    Posted 7.24.13 Reply
  185. Brenda Gervaise wrote:

    I’m waiting for my first paninni maker to be delivered.
    I didn’t realize that you can grill meat on them.
    I look forward to getting your e-mails regarding paninni recipes.
    Thanks,
    Brenda

    Posted 7.31.13 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Yes! As long as your press comes with a drip tray or other drainage mechanism you absolutely can. Happy grilling!

      Posted 7.31.13 Reply
  186. Tracey wrote:

    My favorite go-to tool… Just one? Okay, the one tool I turn to repeatedly is my set of heavy-duty kitchen scissors that can be taken apart for easy cleaning. I put a heavy-duty magnet (I got it at Lowe’s) on my fridge, and that’s where those scissors stay. Except for the 15 times a day I used them for opening bags, cutting up chicken for teriyaki, slicing pizza, and any other big and small job I can find.

    Posted 8.4.13 Reply
  187. Jacqueline Thompson wrote:

    Love all silicone gadgets, especially flattened silicone whisk.

    Posted 8.29.13 Reply
  188. Janet wrote:

    I use my spatula for so many things – not just flipping burgers

    Posted 9.10.13 Reply
  189. Kat F wrote:

    My Oxo anything is my fav tool. Particularly my veggie pealer. But I love them all………cuz I don’t slip and I don’t drop them!!!

    Posted 9.10.13 Reply
    • Kat F wrote:

      I meant “peeler”.

      Posted 9.10.13 Reply
  190. SandyC wrote:

    It’s a toss-up between my mini food processor & digital scale which both sit on the countertop ready for quick usage.

    Posted 1.9.14 Reply
  191. Maria wrote:

    I’m shopping for a sandwich/panini maker – looking for a bargain deal, not wanting to get too fancy, maybe $50 tops. Any recommendations? I have looked at the Cuisinart Sandwich maker, its on $20, but is it any good? will I be disappointed for not spending a bit more for a better appliance? Help!
    Thank you!

    Posted 1.31.14 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Hi Maria — I’ve got a summary of my panini press buying advice here: https://paninihappy.com/panini-press-buying-advice-what-to-look-for/
      Personally, I want appliances that I can use often and are decently versatile (or I’d just as soon use the stove or oven) so when it comes to panini presses I usually don’t recommend the $20 sandwich makers. The compact grills made by Cuisinart and Breville are usually around $50-$60 on Amazon. Hope this helps! ~Kathy

      Posted 1.31.14 Reply
  192. New here and new to the whole Panini scene but can’t wait to get started! All looks so yummy!! Thank you for doing this for all of us out here!

    Posted 9.21.14 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Thanks, Barbara — have fun!! ~Kathy

      Posted 9.21.14 Reply
  193. Vara wrote:

    I just bought the Hamilton Beach Panini press, looked for recipes and guess what? I made the Ice cream Cookie sandwich and it’s a go to desert. Love it.

    My favorite kitchen tool is Butter Knife. I use it tighten loose screws, scrape stubborn food, loosen the seal on pickle jars, oh I can go on and on. I also use it to butter my toast 🙂

    Posted 11.28.14 Reply
  194. Joan Gillman Smith wrote:

    Just found your Panini recipe book in the library. It is great! I have an older Italian Panini press that really does a good job but w/o removable plates. I could really use that panini brush. My favorite cooking tool is a stainless steel wok that was a gift to me. I use it for so many things– soup, chili, veggies of all kinds but the tool I actually use most are my kitchen tongs which I use for almost all cooking and serving as well. So happy to have discovered your blog listed in your fabulous book.

    Posted 12.29.16 Reply
    • Kathy Strahs wrote:

      Thanks so much, Joan! Hope you’re enjoying the book. 🙂 Kathy

      Posted 12.29.16 Reply