Every Cook Will Want This $10 Kitchen Tool for the Holidays

As Serious Eats’ resident knife tester, I’ve accumulated (too) many knives over the years. My magnetic knife rack and knife block are at capacity, filled with a variety of chef’s knives, petty knives, nakiri, santoku, bread knives, and even an heirloom sashimi blade that looks a bit like a sabre. I apparently can’t resist a shiny, sharp object. But, I swear, every blade has its purpose: Chef’s knives can tackle turkeys and hardy squash, petty knives are great for everyday food prep, and paring knives core strawberries with a flick of the wrist. And my latest obsession—and the knife I’m gifting to everyone this year— is this petite serrated knife from Victorinox. 

Why It’s a Great Gift 

Victorinox Swiss Classic Utility Knife

$17 at Amazon View on Swissknifeshop.com View on Victorinox.com

I included this colorful, serrated blade in my stocking stuffers roundup (just make sure it’s gifted in a box!) for a couple of reasons. First off, most people have dull knives, which makes them dislike cooking. Sad! So, I bequeath them the gift of a sharp blade. Second, most people poke at tomatoes with an old paring knife, resulting in lots of squishing and oozing. No more! The super-sharp serrated edge on this baby grips onto that squishy, slippery exterior and sinks its teeth in, slicing off neat pieces. The serrations and small form factor also lend themselves to splitting a dinner roll or cutting rounds of baguette for bruschetta. 

Oh, and the knife comes in some really fun colors; I’m digging the 80s vintage kale green and eggplant purple. It’s a great little knife that your giftee will turn to often, and they’ll think of you every time they do. 

Other Affordable Kitchen Tools That Make Great Gifts

• While a spatula isn't necessarily a "wow!"-inducing gift, if you need one, you need one. This sturdy option from OXO scrapes and stirs efficiently, and it's under $15.
• A good rolling pin makes a difference. If you know an avid pie maker, consider this under-$30 Maple French-style pin from J.K. Adams. It rolls smoothly and evenly thanks to its tapered ends.
• I reach for my mini strainer from Kuchenprofi more than I do my full-sized strainer. It's handy for removing seeds from citrus juice, sifting small amounts of cocoa or powdered sugar, or even straining cocktails.
• These mini measuring cups from OXO are my ride or die—I use them all the time. No more messy measuring liquids into a measuring spoon or jigger! Plus, this little cup has measurements in tablespoons, milliliters, and ounces, making it ultra-versatile.
• Finally, check out these colorful Le Creuset pinch bowls. They're incredibly handy for holding spices, minced garlic, a tablespoon of soy sauce, and more. Plus, they almost started a fight in a Yankee Swap I hosted last year (spoiler: I bought myself a set after losing them to my friend Hannah!).

Why We’re the Experts

• Grace Kelly is a senior editor at Serious Eats. 
• She’s tested a gazillion knives, including paring knives and cleavers. 
• She thinks knives make for a great gift.