For over 20 seasons, Top Chef has not only served up tantalizing meals, but also invaluable advice for at-home cooks. This season is no different, revealing such gems as Chef Dan Jacobs teaching viewers how to create delectable dishes using all parts of a sunflower, from petals to seeds.

One of the most potent pieces of advice handed down from the Top Chef alumni over the years is a meat-preparation tip from brothers Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. Their secret to a vibrant and moist steak is liberally salting the meat and refrigerating it for up to 12 hours before grilling.

In times of dinner desperation, quick fixes can make all the difference. This was demonstrated in the 18th season when the contestants demonstrated creative ways to use canned items from the pantry. Tomato soup transformed into a vinaigrette, bread pudding got a twist with a can of cream of mushroom soup, and a can of creamed corn significantly enhanced Carla Hall’s Creamy Shrimp, Corn, and Tomato Chowder.

Yet it's not just about using what's in the pantry, but also what’s in the herb garden. Culinary expert and former Top Chef contestant Kristen Kish harnesses the power of fresh herbs to boost flavor in her dishes. A sprinkle of oregano and thyme add a depth of flavor to her Roasted Beet and Charred Green Bean Salad, and a healthy dollop of parsley brings zest to her Lemony Tofu-Herb Dip.

Top Chef contestants also remind us of the importance of reducing waste, notably in Shota Nakajima's Creamy Mashed Potato Soup with Dashi, which uses leftover mashed potatoes creatively. Similar veggie leftovers work in this recipe, too.

Season 15 champion Joe Flamm revealed his method for preparing pasta. Boil noodles until half-cooked, then transfer them to a saucepan with sauce, butter, and a bit of pasta water to finish cooking. This unification step infuses the flavors of sauce into the pasta more effectively.

Before even starting the cooking process, Ashleigh Shanti suggests ensuring your “mis en place” is ready. This French phrase translates to "everything in its place", and applies to all pre-cooking preparations, from chopping veggies to marinating proteins.

In conclusion, besides offering captivating culinary challenges and entertaining content, Top Chef also provides viewers with brilliant kitchen hacks to help inspire tasty meals. The creativity and resourcefulness showcased by the contestants spark ideas we can take back to our own kitchen counters.