Cookware Accessories

Revolutionize Your Cooking with Must-Have UK Cookware Accessories

Why cookware accessories deserve more shelf space in your kitchen

If you think cookware accessories are just extras, think again. A single well-chosen lid, steamer insert, or plate cover can flip a so-so meal into something you’d brag about. I’ve cooked with basic pots and then upgraded one accessory at a time — each change made prep faster, cleanup cleaner, and flavor clearer. Whether you’re simmering a sauce, steaming veg, or covering a casserole, the right accessory helps you cook smarter, not harder.

Top picks from Nordic Nest: premium tools that actually make a difference

Nordic Nest stocks a thoughtful range of accessories that blend design with practicality. Their selection—including glass lids, stainless inserts, and clever plate covers—proves that small investments can deliver big returns in everyday cooking. Below I break down some standout pieces and why they’re worth your attention.

Eva Solo Eva Trio flat lid — about 8 inches

The Eva Trio flat lid is elegant and practical. At roughly 8 inches across, it fits smaller pans and doubles as a plate cover when you’re plating up and want to keep steam in. Its low profile makes it easy to stack in cupboards, and the sleek design looks at home on any modern hob.

Lékué steam cooker micro tray — perfect for 1–2 servings

For quick steamed veg or fish, Lékué’s micro tray is a gem. Designed for one to two servings, it’s ideal when you want speed and convenience without hauling out a big steamer. Pop it in the microwave or oven and you’ve got steamed food in minutes — a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Mauviel M’360 glass lid — about 9.5 inches

Mauviel’s glass-steel lid is both durable and classy. At roughly 9.5 inches, it’s great for medium-size pans and lets you keep an eye on what’s cooking without lifting the lid. The steel rim adds sturdiness so you’re less likely to chip the glass during use.

Demeyere Apollo 7 pot — roughly 11 inches diameter

If you’re investing in a pot, the Demeyere Apollo 7 is built for serious cooks. Around 11 inches across, this stainless steel pot is heavy-duty and holds heat well, and pairing it with the right lid or steamer insert transforms it into a multi-tasking workhorse for soups, braises, and pasta nights.

Eva Solo Eva Trio recycled stainless steel plate cover — about 11 inches

Plate covers are underrated until you try one. Eva Solo’s recycled stainless steel cover (around 11 inches) keeps dishes warm and prevents spills while transporting food to the table. It’s a small eco-conscious touch that helps with both presentation and practicality.

Demeyere Atlantis 7-piece set — includes a 6.25 inch piece

The Demeyere Atlantis set is ideal if you like matching cookware and accessories. One of the smaller pieces is about 6.25 inches, perfect for sauces and topping off side dishes. Sets like this save you the hassle of hunting for matching lids and pieces later on.

Demeyere specialties glass lid — about 8 inches

Another glass-lid option from Demeyere gives you visibility and a snug fit on mid-size pans. At around 8 inches, it’s handy for daily simmering and reduces splatter—great when you’re keeping an eye on delicate sauces or grains.

Eva Solo Eva Trio plate cover — about 9.5 inches

A smaller version of the plate cover, about 9.5 inches, is perfect for single plates, bowls, or small serving dishes. It’s compact, easy to store, and surprisingly useful when you want to keep a portion warm without reheating.

Knives, steamers and other complementary accessories

Cookware accessories don’t live in isolation — knives and lids and steamer inserts all work together. The HTML data mentions Zwilling and GreenPan, and both make accessories that change how you cook rather than merely taking up counter space.

Zwilling Ecoquick steamer insert — roughly 8.7 inches

Zwilling’s Ecoquick steamer insert, sized around 8.7 inches, is a compact choice for healthy steaming. It fits into many pots and helps you quickly steam vegetables or dumplings while using less water and energy than full-size steamers.

GreenPan universal lid — about 10.25 inches

GreenPan’s universal lid, at roughly 10.25 inches, is a clever accessory if you own multiple pans. Universal lids simplify kitchen clutter and let you cover frying pans, woks, and sauté pans without hunting for exact matches. They’re especially useful in smaller kitchens where space is premium.

Materials guide: choosing between stainless steel, glass, and silicone

Material matters. Stainless steel is tough and long-lasting, glass gives visual control while cooking, and silicone offers flexibility and space-saving benefits. I typically keep at least one of each in the drawer: a stainless lid for durability, a glass lid to check on dishes without losing heat, and a silicone cover for odd-shaped bowls and storage.

Stainless steel — for durability and even heat

Stainless steel accessories resist dents and scratches and can handle regular oven use. They’re also less likely to hold smells, which is great if you switch between cooking curries and custards. If you want cookware that lasts, stainless steel is a solid choice.

Glass — for visibility and precision

Glass lids let you monitor simmering sauces and boiling grains without lifting the lid and letting heat out. They’re perfect for recipes that demand a watchful eye. Just be mindful of heavier usage and the risk of chipping if dropped.

Silicone — the space-saver and multitasker

Silicone accessories, like collapsible steamers or lid covers, win for storage. They resist staining and can handle a surprising range of temperatures. If your kitchen is short on space, silicone offers clever solutions that don’t compromise on performance.

How to choose the right lid or insert for your cook style

Match accessories to how you actually cook. Do you simmer a lot or roast more? If you simmer daily, prioritize tight-fitting glass lids to keep moisture in. If you roast or braise, choose heavy steel lids that can take oven heat. Think about how often you’ll use each piece and whether it has to be stackable or dishwasher-safe.

Fit and compatibility tips

When shopping, measure your pans in inches and keep a list. Many universal lids use a stepped rim to fit several sizes, but a dedicated lid often seals better. For steamers and inserts, check the pot diameter so the insert sits securely without wobbling.

Where to buy quality cookware accessories in the UK

Several UK retailers stock the brands and types mentioned above. Nordic Nest is one good source for design-led pieces. John Lewis and Lakeland are reliable for a broad selection — from budget-friendly picks to high-end names. Amazon UK and specialist kitchen stores carry Zwilling, Demeyere, GreenPan, and Lékué accessories. If you prefer trying before buying, department stores and kitchen boutiques often let you inspect lid fit and material weight in person.

Local and specialist shops worth checking

Don’t overlook regional kitchen shops and independent retailers — they often stock premium European brands and can offer fitting advice. When you’re investing in items like Demeyere pots or Mauviel lids, a knowledgeable salesperson can be really helpful.

Budget vs premium: how to spend wisely

You don’t need to buy everything high-end to get great results. A single premium lid or a well-made steamer insert will outperform several cheap alternatives. I recommend spending more on items that are used daily — lids, a versatile steamer insert, and a universal lid — and saving on occasional-use items like specialty molds or single-use gadgets.

When splurging makes sense

Consider splurging on pieces that improve efficiency and longevity, such as a heavy stainless lid that doubles as a trivet, or a glass lid that’s tempered for regular oven use. These accessories return value over years, not months.

Care, storage, and maintenance to extend the life of accessories

Taking a few simple steps can stretch the lifetime of your accessories. Avoid thermal shock with glass lids (don’t put a hot lid straight into cold water), dry stainless steel thoroughly to prevent spotting, and use gentle cleaners to preserve finishes. For silicone, air-drying and occasional soaking in warm water with vinegar keeps them bright and odour-free.

Storing to save space and prevent damage

Stack lids vertically in a rack, hang lids with hooks, or use a shallow bin for silicone items. Organization not only saves space but prevents nicks and cracks that shorten useful life. I keep glass lids on a low shelf where they’re easy to access but safe from being knocked over.

Small accessory, big impact: real-world examples

I once swapped a thin, rattly lid for a heavy glass-steel piece and immediately noticed better simmer control and reduced splattering. Dishes came out more consistent because I wasn’t constantly lifting the lid to check. A simple plate cover stopped the food from cooling during family photos — a tiny change but one that saved dinner service that night.

Final shopping checklist before you buy

Before you add items to your cart, measure your most-used pans in inches, pick one material to start with, and choose accessories that fill real gaps in your routine. Think about storage and stacking, and prioritize pieces that serve multiple purposes — a lid that fits several pots or a steamer insert that nests with your pots will save space and money.

With the right accessories — from Eva Solo lids to Demeyere inserts, Zwilling steamers, and GreenPan universal lids — you can transform how you cook without overhauling your entire kitchen. Keep practicality, material, and compatibility in mind, and you’ll build a small but mighty set that raises your daily meals to something memorable.

Conclusion: Upgrading cookware accessories is one of the quickest, most cost-effective ways to improve your cooking. Focus on durability, fit, and multifunctionality, and buy from trusted UK retailers or specialist stores that carry brands like Eva Solo, Demeyere, Lékué, Zwilling, Mauviel, and GreenPan. Small changes lead to big results — and once you’ve experienced a perfectly fitted lid or a well-sized steamer insert, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it.