Holiday Kitchen Gifts For Under $15

Kitchen gadgets are a very common gift, and something any cook could use more of. But with so many new gadgets out there, how do you know what to pick? In this article you will find six gift ideas for the cook in your life. No useless pieces of junk or items the recipient won't know what to do with - these six ideas will please any cook. And for less than $15, they are reasonably priced and easy on your gift-giving budget.

Gift Idea #1: Silicone Spatula.

Rubber is out; silicone is in. These handy spatulas come in spoon-shaped, regular or mini sizes and a variety of fun colors. Depending on size and quality, the price of a silicone spatula can range from $5-10. Pick one from a reputable brand such as Williams Sonoma to ensure high quality; this gift will be used over and over again.

Gift Idea #2: Garlic Press.

A garlic press crushes garlic uniformly into tiny pieces while preventing the scent from getting on your hands. The recipient of this great gift will use it every time he or she uses garlic - it is great for everything from salsa to spaghetti sauce. With a good garlic press, you don't even have to peel the clove of garlic and some presses come with a tool for removing the skin from the press. OXO offers one for just $14.99.

Gift Idea #3: Flat Whisk.

Whisks with flat wires can easily mix up small amounts in shallow pans, as well as accomplishing all the jobs a larger whisk is capable of. If you have non-stick cookware, buy a plastic-coated one, like this silicone one from Pampered Chef for $14.99, so that you can mix directly in your pan. This tool is perfect for help in making gravy, sauces and soups.

Gift Idea #4: Silicone Baking Sheet.

Anyone who bakes at home needs a silicone baking sheet (or two or three!) to prevent all kinds of baked goods from sticking. These mats, such as Silpat, are made of fiberglass and silicone. Not only will baked items come out neater, cleanup with be so much easier for the recipient of this gift. Also, no greasing is required, everything will be a little more healthy. The cost of a silicone baking mat ranges from $12-18 depending on size.

Gift Idea #5: Spoon Rest.

In a huge range of colors, shapes, sizes and prices, spoon rests make a great gift for any cook in your life. Pick something that matches the recipient's kitchen colors, or make it an addition to a collection. Great spoon rests can be found from $4-10 any kitchen store such as Sur la Table.

Gift Idea #6: Silicone Baking Cups.

Less messy and healthier than greasing muffin cups, and saving you the cost of paper liners, silicone baking cups are very versatile. Place them on a baking sheet and use them to bake muffins, cupcakes, or mini meatloaves. The cups are easily removed from food once baked. They are available in mini, regular and large sizes. Some brands are quite expensive, but Wilton and other brands make some for a reasonable $6-10 for a set of 12.