Written by: Sarah Hester, MS. RD

As you are working towards weight loss or a healthier lifestyle, chances are you are cooking or prepping more in your kitchen. I have something that will make your life SO much easier as you get into the kitchen more. 

Do you hate cooking because of all the messy clean up after? Scrubbing pans not your favorite activity? Try using tools and pans made of silicon for easier clean up. Here’s what this dietitian has to say about silicon: what it is and why you should be using it. 

What is silicone?

Silicone is a material that is durable, can withstand high temperatures so it won’t melt and is nonstick. Unlike glass, it is not easy to break and doesn’t scratch. It is easy to clean with soap & water or can be thrown in the dishwasher. 

Is it safe to use? 

Yes. The silicon cooking products you find are made of FDA approved food-grade silicon and are safe to use. 

How do I use it?

Silicone comes in many different forms, here are a few of my favorites!

Baking mat. Use this silicon mat on top of your metal baking sheets and you’ll never have to scrub stuck, burnt pieces of food again. The mat easily can be removed from the pan, washed with soap and water, dried and put right back. 

Storage bags. I like the Stasher brand of silicone bags. They come in all different sizes and shapes and double as a veggie steamer and freezer bag *mindblown* Throw a few spears of broccoli and a little water together in one of these babies and microwave for perfectly steamed broccoli ready in minutes without dirtying a bunch of dishes. 

Muffin pan or muffin cups. These are perfect for making copycat Starbucks egg bites because the eggs won’t stick to the mold! 

Freezer molds. These are KEY to freezing soups, broths, herbs, leftover tomato paste and even preparing meals in advance to be reheated. I like the Souper Cubes brand and their 1 cup molds, 2 cups molds, and I like a smaller mold for freezing herbs or making fruit-filled ice cubes. 

Spatulas. Silicone is soft and won’t scratch your pans and is super easy to clean. Highly recommend! 

Happy Cooking!