Microplane 35002 Home Series Fine Grater

The oversized grating area and two way blades of this tool will zest citrus, grate Parmesan and shred nuts. Also handy for pureeing garlic. Because the blades grate in both directions you get results twice as fast. Now while the teeth are tough on food, the handle is easy on your hand.

For finely minced garlic or ginger this is the perfect grater. The cutters are especially sharp, which guarantees easy grating. But this also means you'll need to exercise extra caution--no one likes grated knuckles. For ease in resting the grater on the counter while in use, there's a hard acrylic frame around the metal. The frame also prevents scratches to your countertop. The large handle allows for a firm grip, and the slightly curved grating surface makes it easy to use with oddly shaped chunks of ginger or garlic cloves. It's also an excellent choice for microshreds of citrus zest. --Jill Lightner