Here is a list of the essential kitchen tools and utensils you should have:

• Pots and pans (the best thing to do is to get a set of pots and pans)
• Saucepans, two-, three-, and four-quart
  
• Frying pans, eight and twelve inches
  
• Dutch oven
  
• Roasting pan
  
• Cookie sheets
  
• Cake pans
  
• Muffin pan
  
• Steel or plastic colander
  
• Salad spinner (if you eat a lot of salad)
  
• Cutting board
  
• Mixing bowls
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  
• Chef's knife
  
• Carving knife
  
• Paring knife
  
• Serrated knife
  
• Bread knife
  
• Mixing and serving spoons
  
• Spatula
  
• Whisk
  
• Grater
  
• Corkscrew/bottle opener
  
• Plates and bowls
  
• Silverware
  
• Drinking glasses, cups, mugs
  
• Tea kettle
  
• Coffee maker
  
• Blender
  
• Mixer -- hand or stand (if you really use it, not if you hope you'll use it)