This cookware from Cuisinart's Chef's Classic series incorporates both the classic good looks of gleaming stainless steel with the ease of an interior nonstick finish. Not just any nonstick, this finish is Quantanium, a high-quality, long-lasting finish internally reinforced with titanium. Little or no oil is needed for cooking on this ultra-smooth surface, and low to medium heat is recommended, along with non-metal utensils. An aluminum core encapsulated in the base conducts heat quickly and evenly without hotspots. All the lids are break-resistant glass, and the handles are also stainless steel, riveted for strength. Every piece is oven-safe to 500 degrees F and dishwasher-safe. This 12-piece set of commonly used pots and pans makes a great starter set for the home chef. The three saucepans, holding 1, 2, and 3 quarts, take care of most boiling, warming, and steaming needs; the 8- and 10-inch skillets turn out perfect eggs, pancakes, and browned sausage; the 3-quart covered sauté pan is a good size for stir-fried vegetables, fried chicken, or braised beef; and the ever-popular 8-quart stockpot feeds the whole family with soup, chili, or corn-on-the-cob. All but the skillets come with lids. While dishwasher-safe, washing nonstick cookware by hand is recommended. Cuisinart covers the set with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. --Ann Bieri
What's in the Box
12-piece cookware set. The set consists of: 1-quart covered saucepan; 2-quart covered saucepan; 3-quart covered saucepan; 8-quart covered stockpot; 8-inch skillet; 10-inch skillet; 3-quart covered sauté pan. 12 pieces total.