The Underrated Kitchen Tools Alison Roman Reaches for the Most

Skimm Her Life is a series in our weekly newsletter, Skimm Shopping, where smart women share their favorite things.

With the holiday season right around the corner, we have food on the brain. That’s why we’re tuning into Alison’s new series with Tastemade, Alison Roman’s Home Movies, and asking the host about all things food. Alison, tell us what we need to know…

Your famous shortbread chocolate chip cookies single-handedly got us through the pandemic. Any mix-ins or swaps we could add to make them a little more fall-like?

I think they’re perfect for fall already! You could definitely replace half of the chocolate with some toasted and chopped walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios, which might feel a bit autumnal, but otherwise I wouldn’t change a thing.

Smartest purchase you made recently?

A Stanley water jug. I know they aren’t cool anymore, but I’ve never been more hydrated.

What’s the underrated kitchen tool you reach for the most?

A microplane or simple tongs.

One of our editors has a theory that everyone has a weird/specific dinner they love that they only make when their partner isn't around. What’s yours?

I pretty much exclusively make solo packages of Top Ramen when I’m by myself, if that counts.

Tips for making homemade lunch a little more exciting?

Having things like fresh herbs, lemons, hot sauce, or chili crisp available will make most mediocre or under-seasoned things better. Also, if it’s usually a sandwich, make it a salad. If it’s usually a salad, turn it into open-faced toast. Mix it up even if in a subtle, boring way.

Your current favorite cookbook?

I’m reading a lot of vintage cookbooks. Currently re-reading The Moosewood Cookbook.

Any general book picks for our readers?

I just finished All Fours by Miranda July, and I'm about to go on vacation so I bought two new ones: Early Thirties by Josh Duboff and The Talent by Daniel D’Addario. I'm also pregnant, so I'm reading Expecting Better by Emily Oster.

We’re obsessed with your everyday necklace stack. Where are they from/what are your go-to jewelry brands?

Most of my simple gold necklaces are either from Mejuri or New Top Jewelry in Manhattan.