The next 7 big things to hit your kitchen
Remember the days when Cuisinarts were revolutionizing kitchens everywhere and squeezable ketchup was the hottest new thing to populate your fridge? The kitchen is the hub of so many homes, so we're always looking for the next great thing to spice things up. Here are some things that have made it onto our list of the Next Great Thing...
Artisan Brittle. We were grabbing our morning latte recently when we spotted tiny bags of enticing confections next to the coffee counter. Brittle - but this ain't your grandma's peanut brittle. Los Angeles-based Morning Glory Confections is turning out incredible flavors like Indian Curry & Pistachio, Chai Tea & Cashew, and Cocoa Nib, Coffee Bean & Pecan. While another of our local addictions - p.o.p. candy - serves up Rosemary Almond Butter Crunch and Thyme, Walnut & Cherries Butter Crunch.
Lifestyle Teas. Republic Of Tea has unveiled "Be Well" Red Teas. Described as "wellness teas," each variety is a blend of healthy rooibos along with various good-for-you herbs. We love these caffeine-free and beautifully packaged drinks - and with names like Get Gorgeous, Get Happy and Get Smart, how can we resist?
Alt Salt. We've always loved the idea of serving salt out of a bowl rather than a plain old shaker - so European! Modern versions of salt cellars are popping up all over -- we're crazy about the above bowls from Amanda Gentry. Find a version that suits your style - from crystal to ceramic -- then load it up with gourmet salts.
Personalized Dinnerware. From plates to placemats, the idea of personalized products for your table is fun, creative, not to mention an easy way to make kids a little more excited about dinnertime. Our favorite place to search for anything personalized is Etsy - where we found irresistible kids' plates, cool engraved napkin rings, and more.
Sweet (Healthy) Treats. Healthy treats may not be terribly new, but there are always new ones to discover. Two that should definitely make it to your shopping list: Graham Crackerz Cereal by Three Sisters (available at Whole Foods) a healthy and oh so tasty version of Golden Grahams cereal - no corn syrup, no artificial nothing; and Blueberry Pomegranate Real Fruit Twists by Archer Farms (at Target), a natural fruit snack and a tasty alternative to candy that kids love.
Ceramic Classics. We're tired of trying to figure out which plastics are BPA free and which metals are this-and-that free. So we're voting to go ceramic. Up-and-coming classics include: Giada De Laurentiis™ for Target® 6-pc. Ceramic Bakeware Set (to replace those dented metal loaf and lasagna pans); Anthropologie's farmer's egg crate (pictured above. So much better than the wimpy cardboard carriers); Whitney Smith's stunning lotus bowl set and colorful spice jars from Bauer Pottery.
Seductive Soaps. Even though the job of soap is rather mundane (i.e. dirt removal), there's no reason it should be PRETTY. Once you've tried Good & Pure or Compagnie de Provence soaps in their gorgeous glass bottles, you'll never wash up with anything else.
For more tips on living a stylish life, check out The Foxy Files.
