We’re going pan-to-pan.

Ever since learning about forever chemicals, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect PFAS-free nonstick pan set – and making sure everyone in my life is on the same journey. But it hasn’t been easy. I’ve often encountered flaky, flimsy, sticky pans that make me reconsider going back to Teflon. (I know!) 

GreenPan just launched their Nova collection, and I noticed it has some similarities to Caraway’s Cookware Set. So I decided to try both and see which one deserves a permanent place in my cupboard, and yours!

The Quick Breakdown:

The New Kid In Town (Kind Of)

Although the Nova collection is brand new, GreenPan has been leading the charge in ceramic nonstick cookware for over a decade. Let’s give them their due credit and get right to it! 

The Nova set is 10 pieces for $299.99, featuring GreenPan’s original non-stick diamond ceramic coating. Something simultaneously this affordable and adorable already has my heart in a big way. When I opened up my box of GreenPans, I was awed and almost overwhelmed by the gleaming fixtures and diverse tools now at my disposal.

But looks only get you so far in life! Here are some highlights of my several rounds of testing:

• 10 pieces is the perfect amount. I could get through a whole day of cooking without having to wash and rewash my cookware – and that’s from someone who uses multiple pots and pans at once.
• The forged aluminum lids are an absolute win. I sealed off a grilled cheese to make sure the cheese was sufficiently melty, and noticed they come with a handy utensil divot so you can multitask. Plus, the forged induction base gave a beautiful char, even on low heat.
• The omelet I tested was golden, fluffy, and slid out of the frypan like a breeze. This is huge, as most of my previous “nonstick” pans were actually quite sticky and ruined many an omelet!
• These pans are gorgeous! I find myself serving food in them, rather than plating, because they’re simply so lovely to look at.

Long story short, I was impressed by the Nova. But what about Caraway?

The Instagram Darling

Caraway's Cookware Set goes for $395, featuring 7 pieces and storage solutions (pan rack and lid holder). I have to admit, the storage solutions truly stole my type-A Capricorn heart. These pans are super cute and Instagrammable, and they cook like a dream.

Some highlights of my testing:

• I managed a perfectly crispy-skinned miso-glazed salmon, as well as a delectable skillet cookie. These beauties are oven-safe up to 550, so I was able to finish off my cookie with a quick bake to ensure it was all delicious, no dough.
• Like most ceramic pans, these require a bit of extra care. Minimal scrubbing and low temperatures are the conditions in which Caraway thrives. Unfortunately, not everyone has time for that. I found myself in a pickle when some sauce stuck to the frypan and I had to sit and gently scrub rather than just throwing it in the dishwasher. But at this price, I wanted to treat them the best I could.
• Another disappointment: I found that the coating chipped after just a few uses, and any heat higher than medium will scorch the bottom of the pan, without any way to remove the stain.

The Winner?

While the Caraway set is beautiful and easy to use, the 10-Piece Nova Collection from GreenPan impressed me the most. It’s so incredibly affordable and durable – an investment that won’t break the bank and will serve you for years to come. However, we have to add that any move to non-toxic is a good choice for your health and the future of the planet! 

If you’re itching to grab your own Nova set, it’s just $299.99 – plus get an extra 10% off with code: PRIMARY10!