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<h1>The 7 Best Kitchen Islands of 2020</h1> <h2>These centerpieces will complete your dining and cooking space</h2> <h3>Our Top Picks</h3> “Simple but substantial kitchen island under $500.” “A great choice for a large, farmhouse-inspired kitchen.” “With a foldable drop leaf to add extra counter space or an additional seating area.” “Looks like it’s straight out of a chic New York cafe.” “A piece that works overtime, suiting nearly every need.” “A great way to add prep space without taking up your counter.” “A sleek, beach-y kitchen island that provides the level of utility you’re looking for.” <h2>Best Overall: Southern Enterprises Denning Industrial Kitchen Island</h2> <img class="" src="https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/2kp57dhnjdw1c7uwfrxmtkaybco=/2000x2000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southernenterprisesdenningindustrialkitchenislandinburntoak-5a870b99ae9ab80037f14744.jpeg"/> If you’re looking for a simple (but substantial) kitchen island at a great price, the Southern Enterprises Denning Industrial Kitchen Island is our choice for best overall piece. It’s under $500, with a subtle industrial style that looks modern and fresh. It’s made from medium-density fiberboard, a material created with recycled wood and resin, and measures 22" x 45" x 34." In addition to the standard countertop, it also offers a towel rack and three draws for extra storage. The medium wood and black color combo make it an especially good choice for darker kitchens without becoming overpowering or feeling too heavy. Though there’s some assembly required, the simple design means that construction isn’t frustrating or complicated. Best of all, the island comes with a one-year warranty. If you're looking for a simple but stylish piece for your kitchen, the Southern Enterprises Kitchen Island is the way to go. <h2>Best Antique Look: Home Styles Americana Kitchen Island</h2> When selecting a kitchen island, it is important to consider the design of your kitchen and find a piece that fits as naturally into the style as possible. An antique-style island, like the Home Styles Americana Kitchen Island, is a great choice for a large, farmhouse-inspired kitchen. It’s a piece that will catch your guests’ eyes and provide a place to hide those pots and pans. Made from solid hardwood and veneer, it measures 42” x 24” x 36”, so it’s perfect for a large, open space. It’s topped with a distressed oak board to give you more cutting and prep space, and features a large storage cabinet and an easy-glide drawer. For a little more money, you can add expert assembly (though reviewers say it’s fairly easy to put together yourself). Besides the white finish, this island also comes in natural and black so you can match it to your own cabinets. <h2>Best Expandable: Bassett Farmhouse Basics Kitchen Island</h2> There are many reasons people seek out a kitchen island, and counter space is definitely high on the list. An island with a drop leaf is a great choice if you find yourself struggling to find prep space during Sunday supper, but would like to save space whenever it’s not in use. The Bassett Farmhouse Basics Kitchen Island is made from solid wood with a 3/4-inch granite inlay countertop to aid in kitchen prep. It measures 57.5” x 23” x 36.2,” with a drop leaf to add extra counter space or an additional seating area. The Shaker-style Bassett island features endless storage, with dividers for cutting boards, shelves for pans and three drawers for your various knick knacks. It comes in oak, black or white and weighs 249 pounds, so it’s a sturdy and durable piece. If you’re looking for a higher-end island with extra counter space, the Basset Kitchen Island is a purchase you won’t regret. <h2>Best Modern: West Elm Rustic Kitchen Island</h2> <img class="" src="https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/pppk5ltnrwfngukdobu17wewb1g=/710x710/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/rustickitchenisland-5a870bccc06471003758b84f.jpg"/> A modern loft-style kitchen needs a contemporary kitchen island, like this one from West Elm. This acacia wood and stainless steel island looks like it’s straight out of a chic New York cafe. It measures 46" x 30" x 38," and works just as well for seating guests as it does for slicing and dicing veggies. It’s ideal for kitchens that are more in need of counter than storage space, as it doesn’t have any concealed cabinets built into it. Instead, it features a single shelf, perfect for stacking chic cookbooks or displaying fancy cookware. If you’re looking for a kitchen island that’s style-forward, this is a great choice. Pair it with an industrial bar stool or two to complete the look. <h2>Best with Seating: Beachcrest Home Rabin 3 Piece Kitchen Island Set</h2> <img class="" src="https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/u5_0osnneoy063dncb82rqoa5j4=/971x968/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/rabin3piecekitchenislandsetwithgranitetop-5a870bf96bf06900374f5f4a.png"/> The beauty of a kitchen island lies in its versatility. One day it’s the perfect prep area for a sous chef, the next it’s hosting sleepy Sunday breakfasts. The Beachcrest Home Rabin 3-Piece Island Set is a piece that works overtime, suiting nearly every need. It’s 36.25" x 48" x 37" and packs a big punch with every inch. It comes with two stools and a table area for seating, four adjustable shelves, a storage drawer and cabinet and a metal foot rest. It’s made of solid hardwood and has a granite inlay for safe chopping. Reviewers note that the piece takes upwards of two hours and a lot of muscle to put together, but that the end result is well worth it. The Beachcrest Home Rabin Kitchen Island makes a statement in any kitchen, and will easily turn into your most used piece of furniture. <h2>Best Butcher Block: Powell Color Story Black Butcher Block Kitchen Island</h2> Home chefs know the value of a great butcher block, and a kitchen island dedicated to this particular tool is a great way add prep space without taking up your counter. The Powell Color Story Black Butcher Block Island runs 30” x 30” x 36.2” and comes with two drawers for extra storage. But the real draw of this piece is its solid wood block top — the perfect canvas for any of your cooking needs. It also includes a matching spoon, spatula and tongs, as well as some hooks for easy access. If you want a piece that tells every guest “I love to cook,” this is it. <h2>Best for Small Kitchens: Beachcrest Home Lakeland Kitchen Island</h2> <img class="" src="https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/orq4jocy4jb_zkdismtsvgwx3n0=/853x766/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/lakelandkitchenisland-5a870c4b119fa80037ea9635.png"/> Just because you don’t have a lot of space to spare doesn’t mean you can’t add a practical and beautiful island to your kitchen. The Beachcrest Home Lakeland Kitchen Island is a sleek, beach-y kitchen island that won’t overpower small spaces, but provides the level of utility you’re looking for (it includes two shelves and one slim drawer). Meanwhile, the clean lines of its design give it a modern, updated feel and the white finish looks great in kitchens with any color scheme. Owners say the Lakeland Kitchen Island is easy to assemble and looks much more expensive than its sub-$200 price tag lets on. It’s also easy to paint, as many reviewers note, so it’s a good choice if you want to customize an island to your kitchen’s exact color palette.

Top 15 Best Commercial Kitchen Islands in 2020 – Ultimate Guide

The 7 Best Kitchen Islands of 2020 These centerpieces will complete your dining and cooking space Our Top Picks “Simple but substantial k...

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<h1>The 10 Best Pasta Pots</h1> This wiki has been updated 26 times since it was first published in April of 2015. Whether you’re making a big Sunday meal or a quick weeknight dinner, these pasta pots can take some of the chore out of food preparation, as they let you drain hot water with ease. They’re also useful for boiling potatoes, eggs, corn on the cob, and anything else that requires straining. Some come with colander inserts that are also suitable for blanching and deep frying. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. Skip to the best pasta pot on Amazon. <ul> Research ▼ <ul> Wikipedia UL Product IQ Consumer Reports CPSC. gov Health Canada </ul> Shop ▼ <ul> Ebay Walmart Target </ul> Editor's Choices Top 10 Buyer's Guide Statistics Editor Research ▼ <ul> Wikipedia UL Product IQ Consumer Reports CPSC. gov Health Canada </ul> Shop ▼ <ul> Ebay Walmart Target </ul> </ul> This wiki has been updated 26 times since it was first published in April of 2015. Whether you’re making a big Sunday meal or a quick weeknight dinner, these pasta pots can take some of the chore out of food preparation, as they let you drain hot water with ease. They’re also useful for boiling potatoes, eggs, corn on the cob, and anything else that requires straining. Some come with colander inserts that are also suitable for blanching and deep frying. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. Skip to the best pasta pot on Amazon. <h2>10. Winware 20 Quart</h2> The Winware 20 Quart (appx. $72) is equipped with four inserts that make it possible to prepare several types of noodles or vegetables at the same time. This comes in handy when you’re cooking for a group of people who have varying preferences. <ul> Heavy-duty aluminum Good for use in commercial settings Does not include a lid </ul> <h2>9. Bialetti 7550</h2> The Bialetti 7550 (about $29) is designed with a twist-lock cover and a built-in strainer that makes it easy to drain hot water into the sink. Its nonstick interior helps to prevent unsightly messes and long scrubbing sessions after dinner. <ul> Distributes heat evenly Available in multiple colors Paint chips off rather easily </ul> <h2>8. Calphalon Contemporary</h2> The clear glass lid that comes with the Calphalon Contemporary (around $70) allows you to check on your food as it cooks in the oven or over the stove. Its thick aluminum base provides fast, even heating, while all of its components are safe for the dishwasher. <ul> Includes a steamer insert Sleek shiny design Tends to stain over time </ul> <h2>7. Rachael Ray Porcelain</h2> The Rachael Ray Porcelain (around $56) sports a cheery red exterior that will add a fun pop of color to any kitchen. Its oval shape allows you to drop in long spaghetti noodles without needing to break them, while its convenient pour spout makes it a cinch to drain water. <ul> Glass lid is shatter-resistant Long-lasting nonstick interior Outside is prone to scuff marks </ul> <h2>6. Update International SPSA-12</h2> The versatile Update International SPSA-12 (around $73) is compatible with induction stoves as well as gas and electric ones. This heavy-duty choice features a thick, three-ply bottom and handles that are welded on, so they should remain stable. <ul> Large 12-quart capacity Comes with a strainer Heats up very quickly </ul> <h2>5. Cuisinart 44-22</h2> The stainless steel, riveted handles of the Cuisinart 44-22 (about $57) stay cool even on sizzling stovetops. It’s made with a sturdy aluminum encapsulated base that eliminates hot spots, while its tempered glass cover seals in moisture well. <ul> Oven safe to 500 degrees fahrenheit Nonreactive surfaces Elegant engraved logos </ul> <h2>4. Farberware 70755</h2> The lid of the Farberware 70755 (around $37) offers a built-in colander for quick removal of liquids without the need for any additional kitchen tools. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty, and features a robust construction that’s polished to a smooth, mirror-like finish. <ul> Both small and large straining holes Safe for the dishwasher Available in 3 sizes </ul> <h2>3. Lagostina Q55103</h2> Made from premium stainless steel, the Lagostina Q55103 (about $239) can be used in the oven at up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Included are two wooden utensils and a lid with handles that can serve as a handy spoon rest while you’re cooking. <ul> Compatible with all stovetops Convenient slide-out colander Manufactured in italy </ul> <h2>2. Cuisinart Chef's Classic</h2> The Cuisinart Chef's Classic (appx. $56) sports a shiny, mirror-like finish that retains its brightness through the dishwasher, freezer, broiler, and oven. It comes with a strainer insert as well as a shallow basket that lets you steam vegetables while you’re boiling your noodles. <ul> Handy measurement markings Tapered rim helps prevent drips Backed by a lifetime warranty </ul> <h2>1. All-Clad Pentola</h2> Featuring a seven-quart capacity, the All-Clad Pentola (appx. $379) is made of a heavy-duty combination of steel and aluminum. It boasts a thick copper core for even heating and durability, and its riveted handles are contoured to provide a reliable grip. <ul> Sturdy and warp-resistant Suitable for induction cooking Made in the united states </ul> <h3>Special Honors</h3> Food Network Multipot Set This versatile pot can help you cook pasta, blanch vegetables, boil potatoes, and more. It boasts durable stainless steel construction with an attractive, polished exterior. It comes with an eight-quart-capacity pot, a strainer insert, and a handled glass lid. It’s safe for use with both electric and gas cooktops. kohls. com <h3>Editor's Notes</h3> March 10, 2020: Several high-quality models join our list in this update, in a range of prices, so there’s something to meet every budget. The Lagostina Q55103 replaces another from the same manufacturer that’s no longer available, and this one is compatible with all cooktops, including induction ones, and it can also be placed in the oven at temperatures up to 500 degrees. It’s innovatively designed with a lid featuring two top handles that can serve as a spoon rest while you’re cooking. It also comes with two wooden utensils: a pasta fork and a spaghetti measurer. It also comes with a handy pull-out colander and is made in Italy. There’s a lot to like about the Cuisinart Chef's Classic, which we added and placed in one of our top spots. Its shiny, mirror-like finish stays intact even after you’ve used it in the dishwasher, freezer, broiler, and oven. Like the Lagostina model, this one comes with a colander insert, but it’s also equipped with a shallow basket that can steam vegetables in the pot while you’re also cooking pasta. The pot features handy measurement markings and a tapered rim to prevent drips. It’s a good value for the price, currently listed at less than $60, and it’s also backed by a lifetime warranty. Rather than a colander insert, the Farberware 70755 features a lid with holes in it, so you can quickly and easily pour out the water when your noodles are done cooking. It’s safe for the dishwasher and is available in three sizes, so you can choose the one that’s right for your household, whether you're dining alone or you've got many mouths to feed. Incidentally, it’s also available with a lid without the straining holes. The Culina Silver and the Pensofal Terre di Siena also leave the list today, as they’re no longer available. While you’re shopping for cookware, if you find yourself in search of a stand-alone strainer as well, check out our well-curated list of best colanders, which features standard, bowl-shaped varieties as well as conveniently collapsible and expandable designs. <h3>Why You Need A Dedicated Pasta Pot</h3> <blockquote> Using an insert means you can reduce the number of times the pasta moves from one dish to another, thereby reducing breakage. </blockquote> <blockquote> This insert not only makes your job easier, but it also protects the integrity of your pasta. </blockquote> If you've been grabbing a pot from your standard cookware set to make pasta, I have news for you: you've been doing it wrong. Each pot serves a special purpose, and pasta pots are no different. Most pasta pots come with an Insert that stays inside the pot, while you're boiling your water and making your pasta. This insert not only makes your job easier, but it also protects the integrity of your pasta. Without an insert, you have to lug your full pot of hot water and pasta over to the sink, and pour the pasta out into a colander. Then, you have to transfer the pasta once again, this time into your serving bowl. The more times you transfer pasta, the more prone it is to breaking, especially with more fragile pastas like ravioli. Using an insert means you can reduce the number of times the pasta moves from one dish to another, thereby reducing breakage. If you have weak wrists, you can't afford to not have a pasta pot. Carrying a pot of hot water and pasta to the sink can be too much for your forearms. An insert lets you cut the weight of the entire thing nearly in half, allowing you to first remove just the pasta, and then dump out the water. Another nice perk is that this allows you to let the water cool before pouring it out. How many times have you burnt your wrists while dumping a pot full of hot water and pasta into a strainer? Probably more times than you'd like to admit. The inserts that come with pasta pots offer a few other surprising benefits. If you like to hold onto your pasta water and use it as a finisher in your pasta sauce, you can do that with a pasta pot. Not so with a regular pot. You lose all your pasta water when you dump out your noodles using a standard pot. These inserts are also great for making broths and stalks. Rather than individually scooping out each chicken bone and vegetable piece, just make your stock using a pasta pot, putting your solid items in the insert, and remove the insert when your liquid is ready. <h3>Myths About Making Pasta, Busted</h3> At first glance, there isn't much that differentiates one pasta from another. But if you've dined at several Italian restaurants, you know that simply isn't true. The flavor and texture of pasta can vary wildly. It's all in the way the chef makes it. You could make yours restaurant-quality, too, if you just stopped believing a few myths. First, if you are adding oil to your water: stop that. We all know that water and oil do not mix, yet we keep putting oil on our pasta and expecting some of our water-based sauces to stick to it. It just won't work. If you twirl your noodle in a puddle of sauce and lift it to your mouth only to find all the sauce has slid off, it's probably because you added oil to your water. <blockquote> Keeping a little bit of the pasta water is actually good for your sauce, helping to blend the natural flavor of your noodles with your sauce a little better. </blockquote> The second untrue myth is that you should rinse your pasta after straining it. This interferes with your pasta's ability to hold onto sauce. When you rinse your pasta, you remove many of the starches that help it hold onto sauce. If you're rinsing your pasta with cold water, you're making matters worse because, you're cooling down your pasta, and who wants cold pasta? Only rinse your pasta if you plan on making a cold pasta salad. A third damaging myth is that you should strain every last bit of water from your pasta. Keeping a little bit of the pasta water is actually good for your sauce, helping to blend the natural flavor of your noodles with your sauce a little better. The final myth you need to stop believing is that every pasta shape and every pasta sauce goes well together. They do not and it's important you know that so you don't have an unsatisfactory pasta-eating experience and quit the food altogether. Pasta eaters are actually some of the healthiest people, so do what you can to keep loving the stuff. The pasta-sauce rules are extensive, but generally remember that small, shaped pasta like farfalle do well with a textured sauce, such as bolognese. Tubed pasta like penne do well with chunky sauces. Long noodles thrive with olive oil-based sauce. <h3>What To Look For In A Pasta Pot</h3> When picking out your pasta pot, there are a few features to look for that will make your cooking and dining experience much better. Make sure your pot has a non-stick interior so that your noodles will easily slide off of it when you pour them out. Just look for those that are free of Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a compound used in the process of making Teflon that has been shown to cause health defects. On another safety note, you'll want a pot with handles that don't heat up, so if you forget to put on your oven mitts, you won't burn yourself. True pasta gourmands might like a pot that has several inserts, so that you can make various types of pasta at once. This way, you can get your fusilli ready for your pasta salad and your noodles ready for your spaghetti bolognese, all at the same time. These are also helpful when cooking for family members with different taste. Maybe you want whole grain pasta because you've heard it's better for you, while your spouse just wants plain white pasta. Multiple inserts mean you don't have to use multiple pots, and that means less cleanup later. Make sure to choose a pot made from rust - and warp-resistant materials, as well. You should also consider one that's safe for use with metal utensils, too, so you don't accidentally scratch your pot while trying to steal a taste of the boiling contents. Typically, pots that are made from a combination of stainless steel and aluminum will stand the test of time.

Top 15 Best Pasta pots with Strainer in 2020 – Ultimate Guide

The 10 Best Pasta Pots This wiki has been updated 26 times since it was first published in April of 2015. Whether you’re making a big Sunda...

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