I agree that a convection toaster oven is a must have. That, my blender (a good blender is awesome and will stand in for a mixer in many cases), my coffee maker (with thermal carafe), quality knives and my wine glasses are the essentials.

I do use the microwave a lot, but I could do without it. I also have a nice stainless kettle that boils water in no time flat, but again, it's a nice to have. Same for the slow cooker - I have one, use it occastionally...but most of my slow cooking items are easily made on the stove on the weekends.

I have never owned a rice cooker and I can't believe that others consider it an essential - very interesting!

Another item to consider - if you already have an ipod, get a docking station with speakers. It's wonderful to have music as background noise when cooking, cleaning or reading.