If you’ve got a foodie or health-conscious eater on your holiday list, you already know they take their kitchen gear seriously.
That’s why we asked Chris Barrett, RD, a registered dietitian with Hartford HealthCare, what gifts actually make a difference for people who love to cook, blend or meal-prep their way through the week.
“Healthy eaters appreciate anything that makes nutritious cooking easier, faster or more fun,” Barrett says. “Simple tools can help people stay consistent with their goals and improve time efficiency.”
Here are plenty of ideas to help you find the perfect gifts for the foodies in your life.
Gifts that make cooking easier
1. Glass meal containers
Barrett’s first pick is all about convenience — and avoiding spills.
“A really good set of glass containers with latch tops is huge,” he says. “You can microwave them safely, use them for hot or cold foods and not worry about things leaking.”
How to choose: Look for leak-proof lids, stackable designs and microwave-safe glass.
> Related: 8 Tips for a Successful Meal Prep, According to a Dietitian
2. High-quality knives
Good knives make prepping faster, easier and safer.
“A really good set of knives makes a big difference,” Barrett says.
And if someone’s still getting comfortable in the kitchen? “We teach knife skills in our cooking classes at Bone & Joint Institute,” he adds, which can make a thoughtful paired gift.
How to choose: Choose a chef’s knife with good balance and a comfortable grip.
3. Vegetable choppers
If slicing and dicing feels intimidating, Barrett suggests a countertop chopper.
“They let you chop a lot of vegetables quickly,” he says. “They’re great for soups, chilies — anything where you need a lot of vegetables fast.”
How to choose: Pick plastic for budget-friendly options or glass for durability.
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For the person who wants a healthier alternative to frying without turning on the oven, an air fryer is a smart pick. Just don’t buy the tiny one.
“You have to make sure the volume is big enough,” Barrett says. “A lot of people buy the cheapest option, but they’re so small you can’t even fit a head of broccoli in there.”
How to choose: Make sure the basket size fits the volume of food they typically cook.
> Related: Are Air Fryers Actually Healthy?
Gifts that support hydration and nutrition
5. Stainless-steel water bottle
Hydration gear is always useful, especially for people who stay active or travel often.
“A stainless-steel water bottle is great, especially if you travel,” Barrett says.
The right bottle can be a daily staple, helping someone drink enough water without relying on single-use plastics.
How to choose: Choose a durable, insulated model with a leak-proof lid. And make sure the size matches their lifestyle — backpack pocket, car cup holder, daily fluid goals. Females need 72 fl oz daily, males need 96 fl oz — and both need more if exercising regularly.
> Related: If You Drink Out of Plastic Water Bottles, Don’t Make This Mistake
6. Athlete-friendly cookbooks
For the foodie who thrives on inspiration, athlete-focused cookbooks can spark new ideas and support performance goals.
“Look for athlete-specific cookbooks,” he says. “Carbohydrate needs are higher and the recipes are creative with fruits and vegetables.”
He also recommends Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook.
“It has so many practical tips and skills, and it helps athletes and parents stay on the same page when they meet with a sports dietitian.”
How to choose: Look for books with clear nutrition info, approachable recipes and simple ingredient lists.
7. Subscription boxes
If you want something fun and personalized, Barrett suggests a subscription.
“You can find subscription boxes for products people already love,” he says. “If they like certain energy bars or protein bars, you can build a custom mix and have it delivered every month.”
It’s a gift that keeps surprising them long after the holidays.
How to choose: Pick boxes with mix-and-match customization to keep it exciting.
> Related: How Much Protein Do I Need to Build Muscle?
None of these cutting it? Try these foodie favorites
8. Portable blender
Portable blenders are great for quick smoothies, simple sauces or blended snacks. They help people sneak more produce into their day and make on-the-go nutrition a lot easier.
How to choose: Pick a USB-rechargeable model with a durable blade and enough power to handle frozen fruit.
9. Insulated lunch Box
A well-made insulated lunch box can completely change someone’s weekday routine. It keeps meals safe and chilled, cuts down on takeout and supports healthier choices throughout the day.
How to choose: Look for compartments, a sturdy zipper and an easy-to-clean liner to keep things fresh.
10. Oil mister
An oil mister helps lightly coat vegetables, pans or proteins without pouring too much oil. It’s a simple tool that supports healthier cooking and better portion control, especially for people who roast vegetables often.
How to choose: Choose a clog-resistant model with a consistent spray pattern.
> Related: Which Cooking Oil Is Best for My Health (and My Food)?
11. High-quality countertop blender
A powerful blender opens the door to soups, smoothies, sauces and even homemade nut butter, which Barrett calls one of his favorite uses. A great blender can last for years and often becomes the most-used tool in the kitchen.
How to choose: Look for high wattage, multiple speed settings and a sturdy pitcher.
12. Nonstick or ceramic skillet
A good skillet makes everyday cooking easier. Ceramic or PFOA-free nonstick surfaces require less oil, cook evenly and clean up quickly — all big wins for someone who cooks often.
How to choose: Choose pans with solid construction, comfortable handles and coatings that hold up well with regular use.
13. Mason Jars sets
Mason jars aren’t just for canning. They’re perfect for salads, sauces, overnight oats, pantry storage and homemade dressings. They help keep ingredients organized, reduce waste and make meal prep feel more manageable.
How to choose: Pick wide-mouth jars for easier filling and cleaning. Bonus points if you add reusable lids.
A little kitchen inspiration goes a long way
What matters most is choosing something that fits their routine and makes healthy cooking feel doable.
“Anything that supports home cooking or makes healthy eating easier is always a welcome gift for those looking to eat healthier into 2026,” Barrett says. “It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be something they’ll actually use regularly.”
When it comes to gifts for foodies, the best picks are the ones that support everyday healthy cooking. With the right tools and a little inspiration, the foodie or healthy eater in your life will be ready to chop, cook, blend and snack their way into the new year.
