8 Amazing Kitchen Hacks to Live By [Video]

When it comes to spending time in the kitchen, some people love it, and others hate it. No matter what side of the spectrum you fall under, these kitchen hacks are meant to make your life that much GR8ER. From how to make your fresh herbs to last longer, to how to get rid of fat in your soup, and how to cut soft cheese without smashing it, these kitchen hacks are life-changing.

#1 – Stop Cheese from Sticking

Freshly grated cheese makes a difference in your dishes. But, we all know how annoying grating cheese can be. To avoid having to clean your cheese grater ten thousand times, use a quick spritz of cooking spray to prevent the cheese from sticking.

#2 – Keep Cold Appetizers Cool

Want to surprise your guests with shrimp, deviled eggs, or a beautiful cold salad at your next get-together? We got you. Fill a large bowl with a resealable bag of crushed ice. Cover the bag with lettuce leaves and place your appetizer on top. Trust us. This will be Instagram-worthy.

#3 – Get More Out of Your Lemons

Next time you need fresh lemon juice, make sure you try this restaurant-approved tip. Microwave your lemons for 7-10 seconds, then roll the lemon back and forth under your palm over the counter. Prepare to be shocked at the amount of juice you’ll get from that one lemon.

#4 – Extend Your Herbs Life

Nothing makes us sadder than seeing our fresh herbs die after day two. Keep herbs like cilantro and parsley bright and fresh with this simple tip. First, trim the stems and place them in a glass of water. Secondly, place a plastic bag over the top and secure it with a knot. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

#5 – Skim the Fat

Struggling with a fatty soup? We’ve all been there when prepping a stock, stew, and our favorite sauces. Grab your soup spoon and cool it over a bowl with ice cubes. Then, skim the surface of the liquid. Ice helps the fat solidify, sticking to the spoon, and making it easier to remove.

#6 – Cut Soft Cheese Faster

If you’ve tried to slice soft cheese before, you probably know how messy that can get. Since you’re obviously not ready to say goodbye to your favorite brie or goat cheese, here’s a tip for you. Use unflavored dental floss to avoid smooshing them and still get your perfect slice of cheese.

#7 – Become a Pizza Reheat Master

When reheating your leftover pizza, try placing a cup of water in the microwave. Why? Because, you’ll add moisture to the air, which helps your pizza stay moist and crispy, instead of dry and hard. Of course, you can see our other pizza reheating hacks if the microwave is not your best friend.

#8 – Ice Cube Mania

It turns out your ice-cube tray can help with more than ice. Freeze chopped herbs in water, olive oil, or stock for later use. Save a single-serve portion of your favorite pasta sauce. Or save your favorite herb-infused butter for later use. Once you’re ready to use them, simply take them out of the ice-cube tray and leave them to thaw in the fridge before using.