Cookstuff

New coat for a classic

It’s hard to imagine that classic, stainless steel mixing bowls could be improved, but the new melamine-coated stainless bowls from Crate & Barrel have done just that. The melamine acts as a barrier to heat and cold, so the exterior remains at room temperature when filled with piping hot or icy cold foods. If you’ve ever tried to pick up a stainless bowl after straining a hot soup into it -- and dropped it -- these bowls are for you. As an added bonus, the nonskid rubber base keeps the bowl from sliding. Better yet, they are dishwasher safe. Choose from four vibrant spring colors: citrus orange, lime green, cornflower blue and hot pink.

At Crate & Barrel stores and www.crateandbarrel.com. Available in three sizes: small, $14.95 (32 ounces); medium, $19.95 (96 ounces); and large, $26.95 (160 ounces).

-- Jenn Garbee