Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely. Grilling adds smoky Mediterranean flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes — skip feta and tzatziki or use dairy-free versions.

Can I substitute the rice?

Yes — quinoa, orzo, couscous, or mixed greens all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes — store ingredients separately and assemble when serving.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

Best Budget-Friendly Kitchen Gadgets Under $20 (Every Home Cook Needs These!)

Sarah Smith
Nov 24, 2025
2 min read

Kitchen tools collage: hand blender chopping veggies, colorful measuring spoons, thermometer reading 165°F on roast, citrus juicer, butter, and cucumber.

You don’t need fancy equipment to make delicious, cozy meals at home. Some of the most helpful kitchen tools are surprisingly affordable — under $20, in fact! Whether you're meal prepping for the week or whipping up a comforting dinner, these budget-friendly gadgets make cooking easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

Here are the best kitchen tools under $20 that every home cook should have.

1. Silicone Spatula Set ($9–$12)

Perfect for: stirring, sautéing, scraping bowls, and folding batter. Silicone spatulas won’t scratch pans, and they hold up to heat beautifully.

2. Ultra-Sharp Paring Knife ($10–$18)

A high-quality paring knife is essential for peeling, trimming, and prepping fruits and veggies. Small, sharp, lightweight — and one of the most-used tools in any kitchen.

3. Garlic Press ($12–$16)

Say goodbye to mincing! A sturdy garlic press gives you fresh minced garlic in seconds — ideal for cozy favorites like Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread and Honey Garlic Chicken.

4. Stainless-Steel Mixing Bowls with Lids ($12–$20)

Great for baking, marinating, meal prep, salads, and storing leftovers. Bowls with lids help keep ingredients fresh and mess-free.

5. Citrus Squeezer ($10–$15)

Fresh lemon and lime juice instantly boosts soups, salads, dips, and marinades. A handheld squeezer extracts more juice with less effort.

6. Fine-Mesh Strainer ($8–$15)

Perfect for rinsing rice, draining pasta, dusting powdered sugar, and straining sauces.

7. Silicone Baking Mats ($12–$18)

Use them for cookies, roasted veggies, pastries, and more. They replace parchment paper and create even baking every time.

Pair them with recipes like: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies or Crispy Roasted Potatoes

8. Digital Kitchen Scale ($10–$16)

A must-have for baking! Accurate measurements = perfect cakes, cookies, and breads every time. Especially helpful for: Pumpkin Spice Bread or Banana Bread