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With a bevy of kitchen gadgets on the market, it can be hard to decide what’s a gimmick and what will actually perform. Does the tool slice and chop as quickly and as accurately as it claims? Does it really fold to save on space or cut down on prep time? Everyone claims easy to use, but what about easy to clean? We want products that make life simpler, not those that bring up new challenges. And it wouldn’t hurt if they were easy on the eyes when not in use.

Here, a roundup of PointClickHome's favorite epicurean tools that will have you spending less time in the kitchen and more enjoying your feast. Bon appétit.

Though you may never guess it, these simple beech cubes outperform the average metal nutcracker. Simply rest a nut in the hollowed area of the larger block, place the smaller block on top, and give it a gentle whack. The result is a beautifully shelled nut—intact—every time.

Cubist Nutcracker, $29; CharlesAndMarie.com

As early as the 17th century, ke-tsiap, a spicy condiment made from pickled fish, was popular in China. British seamen took the idea home, but they made their version with salted mushrooms. It wasn’t until the concept traveled across the sea again, to New England, that tomatoes were added, resulting in what became a classic American condiment. With freshpicked tomatoes everywhere, summer is a great time to make ketchup. It’s simple to do and takes only a few ingredients.

Metropolitan Home brings you three tasty variations. Our classic American ketchup features cider vinegar and maple syrup. The addition of sherry vinegar, saffron and smoked paprika gives the classic recipe a Spanish twist. Or take the condiment back to its Asian roots by using rice wine vinegar, ginger and five-spice powder. Serving suggestion—French fries! 

In its latest glass masterpiece, Andromeda has created an incarnation that turns the classic chandelier into something wholly unexpected with twisted arms and eerie, dripping embellishments.

Melt Meee Chandelier; AndromedaMurano.it

If you love great design but don’t want to burn another hole in your wallet, look no further. It might seem like a stretch, but PointClickHome has found ten amazing products and accessories from our "Deal of the Day" blog that all ring up at just $5 or less. So go ahead—set aside your coffee shop allowance for just one day, and invest in one of these chic little pieces.

Think we can’t go any lower? Next week, we’ve got a roundup of items for a buck a pop!

A Lil' Bit of Lichtenstein (above)

Not only do these comic plates appeal to our love of Pop Art—they’ve channeled our inner super-hero. Ooh, yum, and mmm…we want all three! Virtually nothing can defeat these powerful little porcelain plates (well, at least not the microwave or dishwasher). Great for kids, but who wouldn’t want their morning toast served this way? —Sarah Newell

Victoriana is having a moment, but there’s nothing macabre about these charming terrarium centerpieces. Instead, they’re grandiose in scope and very of-the-moment. Top off a small collection of potted plants or greenery with a glass cloche or scatter a few along the table. It’s instant drama! (Photographer: Rachel Thurston).