Perks and Rec: This top-rated Dutch oven is on sale

My Dutch oven has a permanent space in my "most used" cabinet year-round, since I use it for making pasta sauces, baking bread and sautéing veggies. But with soup season rapidly approaching, it may be upgraded to a spot on the counter, as I'll put it to good use making my favorite soup over and over again.  

If you're lacking in a Dutch oven or don't feel passionately about the one you already have, it's time to upgrade. Luckily, that upgrade won't cost you an arm and a leg. Our favorite affordable Dutch oven from Lodge is 40% off right now, ringing up at $80. We found that it scored highly in our experts' cooking tests, and was easy to clean when you're done. 

In other news, almost everything at Gap is 50% off today. I picked up this merino wool cardigan in a pretty green shade for just $35. Don't need a new sweater? Grab some slacks, a cold-weather dress or a coat you won't want to take off while they're on sale. 

Happy shopping, 

— Sara Beth Bolin, Newsletter Writer 

Reviewed, part of the USA Today Network