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Opinel Essentials+ Small Kitchen Prep Knife Set

Pros

  • Martensitic stainless steel blades hold an edge well for prep tasks
  • Set covers a serrated knife, peeler and paring knife for everyday jobs
  • Compact trio takes up minimal drawer space

Cons

  • No chef's knife included, better as a companion set than a standalone kit

Specifications

Brand
Opinel
Price tier
Budget

How it compares in Cutlery & Knives

We list 41 cutlery & knives products, priced from £9.00 to £345.00. At £19.50 this one is the 11th cheapest of them 30 cost more. The average across the subcategory is £57.78 and the midpoint is £35.94, so it lands £38.28 below the average.

Its 4.5-star score sits level with the cutlery & knives average of 4.54, with 18 of the 41 rated higher. Its 640 Amazon reviews make it the 26th most-reviewed here, against a subcategory average of 1,607.

Price position in Cutlery & Knives

Cheapest £9.00This one £19.50Dearest £345.00

Splitting the subcategory into three price bands puts this product in the Budget band (£9.99£31.95), which holds 12 of 35 products and averages £19.43 at 4.51 stars.

Average price and rating of each price band in Cutlery & Knives
BandRangeProductsAverage priceAverage rating
BudgetThis one£9.99£31.9512£19.434.51
Mid-range£32.99£69.7612£47.144.53
Premium£70.00£424.0011£166.674.69

About this product

The Opinel Essentials+ Small Kitchen Prep Knife Set offers a versatile trio of knives designed to streamline your food preparation tasks. This set includes one serrated knife, one peeler, and one paring knife – ideal for peeling vegetables, mincing herbs, and general cutting with ease. The attractive polymer handles are dishwasher safe, making maintenance quick and simple.

Each blade is crafted from martensitic stainless steel, offering excellent sharpness and wear resistance, even under frequent use. Stainless steel provides the advantage of not needing any special care or treatment. The sturdy polymer handles are resistant to water, chemical agents, and heat, ensuring durability and longevity.

This 3-piece set, manufactured in France by Opinel, is a practical addition to any kitchen. The compact size means it will take up minimal space in your drawer, making it suitable for smaller kitchens or those who appreciate organised storage. The lifetime warranty provided by Opinel demonstrates confidence in the quality of this product; manufacturing defects are guaranteed to be exchanged at the buyer’s request.

The set includes a peeler and is designed for everyday food preparation tasks. While it doesn't include a chef’s knife, it functions best as a complementary set alongside other kitchen tools. The blades are 9 centimetres long and weigh just 27 grams, offering a lightweight and comfortable handling experience. Available in blue, green or red, this Opinel Essentials+ Small Kitchen Prep Knife Set is constructed using stamped stainless steel.

FAQ

What can I use the Opinel Essentials+ Small Kitchen Prep Knife Set for?

This set is ideal for general food preparation tasks such as peeling fruits and vegetables, slicing soft foods like cheese, and performing precise cutting work in a smaller kitchen space. The included knives are well-suited for everyday meal prep and light chopping needs.

What materials are the knives made from?

The blades of this set are constructed from stainless steel, providing durability and resistance to wear. The handles are made from polymer, offering a comfortable grip and ease of cleaning.

How should I maintain these knives?

To keep your Opinel Essentials+ knives in optimal condition, simply rinse them with warm water after use and dry thoroughly. The polymer handles are dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning – however, hand washing is recommended to prolong the life of the blade.

Does this set include a chef's knife?

No, this set comprises three individual knives: a serrated knife, a peeler, and a paring knife. It’s designed as a supplementary collection for supporting kitchen tasks rather than a complete replacement for a larger knife set.

What is the size of each knife in this set?

Each knife within the set has a compact design, making it suitable for smaller workspaces and easy storage. The individual knives offer precision cutting without requiring significant counter space.

Are these knives durable?

The stainless steel blades are designed to hold their sharpness well, providing reliable performance during regular use. The sturdy polymer handles contribute to the overall durability of the set, ensuring longevity.

How does this set compare to other similar kitchen knife sets in this price range?

This Opinel Essentials+ set offers a balanced combination of knives for basic food preparation at an accessible price point. It’s a practical choice for individuals or small households seeking a functional and affordable starting collection.

What colours are the handles available in?

The handles of this set come in three distinct colour options: blue, green, and red, allowing you to select a style that complements your kitchen décor.

Is there anything I should be aware of regarding safety when using these knives?

As with any knife, exercise caution during use. Always cut away from yourself and keep fingers clear of the blade path. Store the knives securely out of reach of children.

What kind of warranty is included with this product?

Opinel stands behind the quality of this set, offering a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects. In case of such issues, the manufacturer will exchange the item at the buyer's request.