This is relevant, as I may be starting a kitchen from scratch in the near future.

I would want, at very minimum:
saucepan with lid,
frying pan with lid,
liquid measuring cup;
mixing bowl;
baking pan;
kettle;
potholders,
whisk, slotted spoon, pancake flipper, at least one good knife.
And at least one each of teacup, glass, plate, saucer, bowl, table knife, fork, spoon, serving spoon.
With those, a stove, an oven, and water, pretty much anything is technically possible.
Oh, and you still probably need a can opener, and kitchen scissors, and some twist ties or clips.

The next things I'd get are measuring spoons & cups, a cookie sheet, a cutting board, a microwave, more saucepans, and some corel casseroles and tupperware for leftovers and storage.

I still can't do hard-boiled eggs, though, so maybe you shouldn't listen to me.