Whether you are new to cooking or have been studying this art for awhile, one thing is for sure, you need knives.  There are knives out there for just about anything you want to prepare but there are 3 knives you will reach for over and over again.

• Chef’s Knife – This knife is great for all the chopping, slicing, and dicing that you will ever want to do.  Typically 6 to 10 inches long, it has a wide blade which should feel balanced in your hand when you are cutting.
• 
• Paring Knife – For smaller tasks, this knife is the best.  At just 2 to 4 inches long, its what you need for peeling, coring, and hulling.
• 
• Bread Knife – Used for more than just slicing bread, this serrated knife can slice anything that has a different texture on the outside and soft inside, such as a tomato.
• 
• Or you could purchase a set that has all three.
• 

When using knives for the first time, make sure they are properly sharpened (except the bread knife) and held correctly or you will risk cutting yourself.