Earlier this year I responded to a query from the University of Nebraska asking me to participate in a survey of 100 people who published recipes. We were asked to list our five favorite kitchen tools. In exchange for our participation we would receive the rankings of the most frequently listed gadgets. As David Letterman would say, "Here's the top ten list." Most cost under $10 and are suitable for stocking stuffers or suitable for those "drop your name in a hat" gift exchanges certain to rear their heads in the next few weeks.

• 10. Long handle bottlebrush
• 9. Salad spinner
• 8. Scoop measuring cups
• 7. Tools with ergonomic handles
• 6. Kitchen shears
• 5. Sharp knife
• 4. Pump or mist spray bottle to dispense cooking oil
• 3. Flexible plastic cutting board
• 2. Any tool that is dishwasher safe
• 1. Garlic peeler (the rubber tube variety)

Happy shopping!