The spark and intensity of fresh citrus juice can add great flavor dimension to lots of dishes.

It naturally follows that an essential tool for every kitchen is a wooden citrus juicer. Sometimes referred to as a reamer, these simple wooden items are easy to use, easy to clean and inexpensive to buy. At home, just cut and orange, lemon or lime in half and flick out the seeds with the tip of a paring knife. Grasp a half in your left hand, assuming you’re right handed, and then push the juicer into the center of the citrus, twist it and the juices will run into a bowl.

Squeezing the citrus while you twist the juicer increases liquid output.

It’s very easy to clean. A simple hot water rinse will do it. Don’t put them in a dishwasher.

Wooden citrus juicers are readily available in kitchen stores. I found mine at a target.

Prices range from $2.00-$3.00, and it’s worth every last cent.