Clever Cutter lets you chop scissors-style

A couple of people requested that I test the As Seen on TV Clever Cutter, which combines a knife and cutting board in one tool.

I must say, despite mocking it to several co-workers, this is a pretty good product, especially for knife-challenged people.

My cousin had seen the Clever Cutter commercials so I made sure she was with me when I tested it. We were both amazed at how well the stainless-steel blade cut through a carrot and cucumber (I was dubious, thinking I wouldn’t have the strength to squeeze the handles together). My cousin noted how easy it was for her to slice the carrots thin, too.

My aunt joined in, cutting a few slices off a block of cheddar cheese, and she, too, liked the product. My uncle, the cook, wasn’t as captivated by the scissors’ smooth cuts, but after listening to our praises, gave the gadget an 80 percent rating.

How it works: Just like scissors, except that once you decide where you are cutting, you can’t hesitate — the momentum helps produce a clean cut. Also, make sure the vegetable is resting on the attached 1-inch cutting board, as that provides stability.

Pros: Has a safety latch. Easy to use, clean (just be careful with the sharp knife) and store. Portable and saves on washing both a knife and cutting board. Dishwasher-safe.

Cons: It only slices. Large items, such as potatoes or onions, need to be cut in pieces to fit between the blade and the cutting board. Also, it’s best for firmer types of produce. When I tried to cut an eggplant and tomato, the knife sometimes didn’t cut all the way through, leaving a piece hanging by its skin.

Cost and availability: $14.99 at Longs Drugs; various prices online. The buyclevercutter.com site is offering a two-for-one deal, with a free peeler (cost is $14.99, but you have to pay shipping and handling fees for both cutters). Get the same deal by calling 877-242-6020.

Worth it?: A little pricey, but if you do a lot of chopping in small amounts, such as for vegetable soup for one or a couple of salads a day, it’s handy to be able to slice right over the pot or plate of greens.

Got a gadget that you love? Or are you curious about one you’d like us to test? Email crave@staradvertiser.com, or write Crave, Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza Suite 210, Honolulu 96813.