The things that make cooking infinitely easier. . .but won't break the bank.
Salad Spinner - I hate wet lettuce!!!
Rice cooker - mine has a steamer basket that can be inserted on top to cook veggies while it's cooking the rice! I got it at Target for less than $20.00.
Two decent knives - a paring knife and an 8" chef knife. The most dangerous knife in the kitchen is a dull one. You press too hard and end up cutting yourself. Get a decent cutting board, too. Ask for advice at a store that sells cutlery - I own a lot of Cutco knives from Vector marketing. They're guaranteed for life and they'll sharpen them for the cost of shipping.
Lots and lots of freezer containers. I freeze lunches ahead for the week at work.
Microplane or other hand-held grater for cheese, ginger, etc.
Spider - available in Asian cooking outlets - a wire, spider-web shaped scoop with a bamboo or wooden handle. Great for scooping out fried food or pasta.
If someone asks what you want for an upcoming gift-worthy event, ask for enameled cast iron. Le Creuset is a well-known brand, but I've scored some nice pieces for way less at Kohl's and Cost Plus World Market. You can roast, braise, and serve. . .or make a nice soup. It holds heat really well.
