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9 Items Every Starter Kitchen Needs

Before your new kitchen becomes the site of any culinary escapades, consult this list of nine kitchen essentials from Costco.com.

1. Extra-virgin olive oil

Opt for cold-pressed for superior flavor - drizzle it over finished dishes, like pasta, fish or grilled vegetables.

2. Seasonings

No dish is complete without a kick. Create your own multi-ingredient seasonings at home, such as taco seasoning, and bag them in singles for even quicker cooking.

Pro-Tip: Seasonings can be just as sweet as they are savory. Mix 1 cup of sweetener with 4 tablespoons of cinnamon for a blend you can sprinkle over toast, oatmeal or coffee.

3. Quality knives

Not sure if your knife is sharp enough? Test the blade by cutting into the side of an onion, which has slippery skin. If the blade catches with ease without sliding, your blade is sharp enough.

4. Cutting boards

Look for "no-slip" boards to keep your fixins off the floor. A kitchen cart that doubles as a cutting board can be used to transport newly prepared dishes from the kitchen to the table.

5. Mixing bowls

You'll want at least three different sizes. Trust us.

Pro-Tip: A few other easily overlooked basics? Tongs, whisks, spatulas, veggie peelers and, of course, a can opener.

6. Measuring spoons or cups

Just eyeballing it is something only a select few can pull off flawlessly.

Pro-Tip: Speaking of eyeballing it, keep a thermometer on hand to avoid under–or overcooking meat, poultry, egg dishes or casseroles. Look for stainless steel and a shatterproof thermometer.

7. Nonstick skillet

This will keep the cleanup to a minimum when cooking over low to medium heat. Just don't introduce most skillets to your metal utensils.

8. Baking set

Cover your bases with a baking sheet and a pan. Just don't forget to arm yourself with an oven mitt.

Pro-Tip: If you're more of the hands-off type, invest in a slow cooker and let the meal cook itself.

9. Food processor and blender

A complete system will include both features, so you can blend, chop or puree your way to a diet rich in fruits and veggies.

Pro-Tip: Blend outside the box, especially if you have strict dietary needs. Salsa, hummus, no-knead dough, sorbet, nut butters, juices, soups and sauces can all be made at home.