I want to cook more in 2017, and these are tools I plan to use

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I want to do a lot in 2017, but my main resolution is to cook more.

It clears my head and saves me money. Sharing food is also a great way to spend time with the people you like. 

I've liked to cook my entire life, but since striking out on my own, I've lacked the tools to do it.

I used the holidays as an excuse to up my cooking-tool game, and I'm looking forward to 2017 being a very tasty year. 

A stand mixer

I like to make baked goods (my co-workers can attest to this), but I'd like to expand my baking horizons in the next year. Mixing by hand is fine for certain small-batch treats, but a standing mixer is the way to go for making smooth batter. 

I opted for this Hamilton Beach mixer because of its variable speed, the inclusion of three sets of attachments, and relatively small size. 

Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Classic Stand Mixer, $35.68, available at Amazon

A pasta maker

I've always wanted to make fresh pasta. It only requires a few ingredients, and can keep for a few days before you have to use it.

I also want to focus on making different sauces this year, and fresh pasta is a natural complement to this.

OxGord Stainless Steel Fresh Pasta Maker, $19.95, available at Amazon

A large cutting board

I don't have a tremendous amount of counter space, but I needed a larger cutting board. My old one was large enough to slice a couple of onions or peppers on, but hardly large enough if I wanted to carve a pork tenderloin or roasted chicken. 

Not only is this cutting board made out of bamboo (something I find cool), but it has a well around its edges to prevent drippings from overflowing and making a mess.

Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Board (17 by 12 inch), $15.49, available at Amazon