Countertop real estate is a valued commodity in most kitchens. But for many home cooks, the siren call of new gadgets and electric appliances can be hard to ignore. We tested the newest arrivals and found a few worth making room for. --By Lisa McLaughlin
VITA-MIX
At $600, the Vita-Mix Professional Series is one expensive blender. But this commercial-grade appliance not only emulsifies, grinds and chops; it also turns raw vegetables into steaming hot soup in five minutes.
THE BBQ PIT
Looking to carry the tastes of summer into the fall? The Crock-Pot BBQ-Pit ($120) can slow-roast traditional pulled pork,...