Livspoon

Although I don't have a huge aversion against unitaskers if they do their job well, I also like tools that perform several functions.

The Livspoons are designed for portion control but they're also pretty enough (and weirdly unique enough) to function as serving spoons. The set of four spoons measures portions of 1 cup, 3/4 cup, 1/2 cup, and 1/8 cup, and the handles are designed to perch on the edge of a bowl so they won't slide into the bowl.

The measurement amount are on the bottom of the spoons, so no one will know they're an exact measure unless you tell them, so it's not obtrusive. Of course, if they're your spoons, you'll know the measurements.

While the portion control aspect is great for folks who are trying to eat specific amounts of food, the spoons are also useful if you're plating food for guests, so that everyone gets an equal amount, and so that you don't end up with the last guest getting shorted on the mashed potatoes.

How sad would that be?

But really, I think the cool thing is how the spoons can rest on the bowl edge. My usual serving spoons have fairly short handles, and it's happened more than once that a spoon has slid into a bowl or casserole dish. Oopsie.

And the wavy handles on the Livsoons makes them look unique, too.

Who's it for: People who want an attractive way to portion food in measured amounts.

Pros: They work. They look nice. They're dishwasher safe.

Cons: Because of the wavy handles, they don't nest completely.

Wishes: It would have been nice to have a 1/4 cup spoon along with the included ones.

Source: I received this from the manufacturer for the purpose of a review.