Ep 12. Weeknight Italian

In America's Test Kitchen season 19 episode 12, titled "Weeknight Italian," the chefs are taking on the challenge of creating Italian dishes that are quick and easy enough to make on a weeknight. This episode is perfect for anyone who loves Italian cuisine but doesn't have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen.

To start things off, the chefs tackle the classic Italian dish of Chicken Parmesan. They test out various methods for cooking the chicken, including pan-frying and oven-baking, to determine which one produces the most tender and flavorful result. Additionally, they experiment with different types of cheese and breadcrumbs to find the perfect combination for a crispy and cheesy coating.

Next up, the chefs turn their attention to a classic Italian pasta dish: spaghetti carbonara. However, they put their own unique spin on the recipe by using pancetta instead of bacon and adding some unexpected ingredients like cherry tomatoes and basil. They also come up with a clever substitution for the traditional raw egg sauce, making it lighter and healthier without sacrificing any of the rich, creamy flavor.

In addition to these main courses, the chefs also whip up some delicious sides and appetizers to round out the Italian feast. They create a flavorful and filling white bean and escarole soup, as well as a crispy and garlicky side dish of roasted broccolini. For an appetizer, they prepare a unique twist on the classic Caprese salad, using grilled peaches instead of tomatoes and topping it off with a tangy balsamic glaze.

Throughout the episode, the chefs provide lots of helpful tips and tricks for making Italian dishes at home, especially on busy weeknights. They demonstrate how to properly cook and season chicken, how to achieve the perfect al dente pasta texture, and how to make flavorful sauces without using too many ingredients.

Overall, "Weeknight Italian" is a must-watch for anyone who loves Italian food but struggles to find the time to make it from scratch. With the helpful guidance of the America's Test Kitchen chefs, viewers can learn how to create delicious and authentic Italian dishes in a fraction of the usual cooking time.