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At CNET, we’re pretty big fans of meal kits. Over the years, we’ve tested dozens to find our favorites across all categories, including ready-to-eat meals, vegan options, the best budget picks and even the best for the popular Mediterranean diet.
Because you still have to prepare the meals, there is some chopping involved in every meal kit. Whether it’s an onion, shallot, potatoes or a bunch of bok choy, you’ll need a solid chef’s knife to complete the majority of meal kits. These are our top picks.
A cutting board goes hand-in-hand with a chef’s knife, so it’s another must-have. I personally prefer wooden cutting boards but it is nice to have a small plastic cutting board on hand for when you need to cut raw meat or coat something in spices. With a plastic cutting board, the juices won’t soak into the board like they would with a wooden board and you can pop it right in the dishwasher when you’re finished. These are our picks for the best cutting boards, which include both options.
One of the best parts about meal kits, in my opinion, is that many of the meals require minimal effort, making them ideal for busy individuals, new cooks or anyone who simply doesn’t enjoy spending hours in the kitchen. Because there is often a focus on meals that take less than 30 minutes to prepare, we’re seeing more sheet pan recipes (my favorite). Just toss everything in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, then serve.
