Caraway Prep Set Review: Perfect for Small Kitchens

As an editor who’s always testing kitchen gear, I take storage seriously. I invested in a wooden cupboard when I last moved, and I even store my copper cookware on top of it — I like to think the pots double as decor. But I’m more of a minimalist with my countertops. Like many people, I don’t have as much counter space as I’d like. But I also don’t want the countertops so cluttered that I can’t use a cutting board on them. My water filter, gooseneck kettle, and coffee machine have earned permanent places, but appliances like my air fryer and blender live in a cabinet. 

What’s left is 16 by 25 inches of granite real estate between the stove and refrigerator. When I began testing the Caraway Cutting Board Set, I placed them there for easy access. But to my suprise, I liked the setup so much that I’ve kept them there since. So, when Caraway asked if I’d like to try the matching Prep Set, I didn’t hesitate to say yes. I also didn’t think about where I’d put it.

Caraway Prep Set

The Prep Set consists of a birch wood knife block, a utensil holder in a matte finish, and a matching display tray to hold them. These pieces are all magnetized, helping them stay in place. The set comes fully stocked with five wooden utensils, four knives, and kitchen shears, and the color of the knife handles matches the tray and utensil holder for a sleek look. I chose the cream color, but Caraway offers five other options to cater to any kitchen: its signature perracotta (pink terracotta), mist (think seafoam green), navy, charcoal, and gray.

As it turns out, the 15.5-inch wide tray fits perfectly on the counter space I had open, and there’s still plenty of room for the cutting board set, too. I lined the Prep Set up with the backsplash and the cutting boards up with the fridge for a little perpendicular arrangement that makes meal prepping more convenient than ever. I love having all the tools I need to slice and chop in one corner, not to mention the wooden utensils in reach when cooking in a ceramic Dutch oven or nonstick pan. 

You’re probably thinking, a knife block and utensil holder on the counter would have the same effect. And yes, I’ve kept these pieces on my counter before. But the compact footprint of the Prep Set — it measures just 15.5 by 10.35 by 5.32 inches — makes the difference for me. 

I’ll admit, the knives don’t measure up to the more expensive ones I keep on a magnetic knife block (which now sits in a cabinet, if you’re wondering). But I’m still impressed with the Caraway knives for their sharp, German steel blades and sturdy, balanced feel. They power through thick and fibery produce, glide through citrus, and precisely dice garlic. And right now, I prefer the convenience of this set to anything. 

The utensils, on the other hand, are the best I’ve ever used. Unlike other wooden spoons and spatulas I’ve used, they have a smooth, almost waxy finish that makes them easy to hand wash. I also appreciate that they’re made of sustainable wood (FSC-certified birch) and aren’t treated with formaldehyde or VOCs (volatile organic compounds), according to the brand.

I’d recommend the Prep Set not only to those with limited counter space but to anyone who values efficiency and streamlined design. 

Shop More Caraway Favorites at Amazon: 

Caraway Cutting Board Set

Caraway Baking Sheet

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set

Caraway Mini Duo

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Bakeware Set