I really don't like to cook but I appreciate good food. You can often find me watching someone like Rachel Ray on my television as I'm keen to see how to cook even if I don't practice the art much. And watching shows like that give me great ideas on what I may want to order at a restaurant. I do have a few friends who like to cook and I know that when I need to get them a gift, a kitchen accessory is always a good choice.

Of course there are the universal gifts of cookware and cake pans. These are good choices for someone starting their own home, but even the experienced cook will welcome a new pot or pan. Cookware can be quite expensive, but bake-ware can be more affordable. Silicone bake-ware is the latest "thing" in baking. It's colorful, durable and easy to use.

When the cook is really dedicated to refining their craft and they have just about every gadget you can imagine, then a good gift idea is to get them a cookbook. If they have a favorite cuisine like Mexican or Greek food, then find a well reviewed cookbook on that theme.

Certain kitchen accessories are always needed. New pot holders or aprons are needed as old ones wear out. Getting items such as these are particularly useful for new homes or remodeled kitchens.

For the persnickety cook who must have the finest ingredients, a gift basket of some very high quality extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and some hard to find spices is a fantastic gift that is very affordable and will be loved by the serious cook.

Children often love to watch you cook. What better an idea to further engage their interest than a cookbook of recipes just for kids. I've seen several cookbooks like this - I've even purchased one for my son when he was around eight years old.

Gifts for the cook make great presents for any occasion. Be sure to think about the cook and his or her new kitchen when they purchase a new home. The right kitchen accessory can make a fantastic housewarming gift.