I am not much for lining my countertops with one-use gadgets such as bun warmers, ice cream cone makers, rotisseries, hot dog cookers, rice cookers, single serving coffee makers, etc. But, I do think that some small appliances can help make cooking at home faster, easier, or cheaper. Here are a few ideas for your gift list:

• Slow cookers allow you to cook soups, stews, and broth without having to watch them all day. They are great for cooking less tender, less expensive cuts of meat and don’t take much energy to run.
• Blenders are great for making smoothies out of fruit that is a little extra ripe. You can also use a blender to grate hard cheese, make bread crumbs, or make baby food.
• Sets of food containers are helpful for storing family or individual servings when you make big batches of soup, chili, etc. If you have someone who eats alone or has difficulty cooking, buying food containers and filling them with meals is a great idea.

-pointers from Peggy