Ep 3. No Sides Required

In the third episode of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 14, titled "No Sides Required," host Ina Garten focuses on main dishes that are satisfying enough to stand on their own, without any sides necessary. She begins by preparing Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Basil Parmesan Mayonnaise, a juicy and flavorful meat dish that is perfect for a fancy dinner party or a special occasion. Ina teaches viewers how to season the beef with a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic, and then roast it in the oven to a perfect medium-rare. She also shows how to whip up a quick and delicious basil parmesan mayo to accompany the beef and give it an extra burst of flavor.

Next up, Ina cooks up a classic French dish called Poulet a la Moutarde, which is chicken baked with a creamy, tangy mustard sauce. Ina shares her secrets for getting perfectly browned and crispy chicken skin, and shows viewers how to make the sauce using three different types of mustard, heavy cream, and white wine. She also demonstrates how to make a simple salad of rocket, endive, and radicchio to serve alongside the chicken, adding a refreshing and zesty contrast to the rich and savory sauce.

For the final main dish, Ina prepares a decadent Lobster BLTs, which combines the luxurious sweetness of lobster with the familiar flavors of a classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. Ina demonstrates how to cook the lobster perfectly, and then shows how to combine it with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tangy aioli on toasted bread to create an unforgettable sandwich. She also suggests serving the Lobster BLTs with a refreshing cucumber salad, made with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and a bright vinaigrette.

Throughout the episode, Ina emphasizes the importance of focusing on a few high-quality ingredients and allowing them to shine, rather than overwhelming them with too many other flavors or side dishes. She encourages viewers to experiment with their own variations on these main dishes, adding their own personal touches and favorite ingredients to make them their own. With her expert guidance and down-to-earth approach, Ina proves once again that simple, delicious, and satisfying meals are within everyone's reach.