Ep 5. Two Classic Pastas

In season 20 episode 5 of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Two Classic Pastas," viewers are taken on a culinary journey exploring two timeless Italian pasta dishes. The episode begins with the test kitchen's experienced chefsexploring the backstory of each dish, discussing the origins and evolution of both classic recipes.

First up on the menu is the traditional Bolognese sauce. The chefs elaborate on how the sauce has evolved over the years, with different Italian cities adding their unique twist to the original recipe. Viewers will learn how to make a rich and flavorful Bolognese sauce from scratch at home, with tips on how to properly layer flavors and prepare the ingredients to achieve a velvety-smooth texture.

Next, the show delves into Trenette al pesto, a lesser-known pasta dish that originated from the Ligurian region in Italy. The chefs explain how the dish's key ingredient, Genovese basil, gives the sauce its unique flavor and aroma. Viewers will learn how to make a pesto sauce that perfectly complements al dente trenette pasta, with tips on how to correctly measure and prepare the ingredients to reach that perfect balance of flavor.

Throughout the episode, viewers will be able to follow along as the chefs prepare each dish step by step. They'll have access to some helpful tips and tricks along the way, such as the importance of using quality ingredients when cooking Italian classics like these.

In addition, the episode offers invaluable insight into some of the common mistakes and pitfalls that arise when preparing these dishes. For example, viewers will learn how to avoid overcooking the Bolognese sauce or overdosing it with tomato paste, and how to properly grind the basil for the pesto sauce to get the perfect consistency.

Moreover, the show also touches on the importance of presentation and how to plate each dish like a pro. By the end of the episode, viewers will have a good understanding not just of how to cook each dish, but also how to present it in a way that's both visually appealing and delicious.

While the season 20 episode 5 of America's Test Kitchen focuses on just two classic pasta dishes, it offers plenty of valuable information and preparation tips that will surely come in handy in kitchens around the world. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this episode will provide you with the tools you need to recreate two timeless Italian dishes that are sure to impress.