Ep 21. Impromptu Dinner

In this episode of Barefoot Contessa, host Ina Garten shows viewers how to put together an impromptu dinner for friends. Whether unexpected guests just dropped by or you simply don't have time to plan an elaborate meal, Garten has some tips and recipes to make a delicious dinner happen with minimal fuss.

Garten begins by making a quick spinach and cheddar frittata, which can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. She also shows how to create a simple but elegant appetizer of smoked salmon on crackers with a dollop of herbed cream cheese.

For the main course, Garten makes a flavorful chicken curry that is sure to impress. She adds a variety of spices and herbs to the dish to give it depth of flavor, along with carrots, onions, and coconut milk. To serve alongside the curry, Garten makes a beautiful and colorful rice pilaf with almonds and raisins.

To finish the meal, Garten whips up a delicious and refreshing fruit salad with a citrus-y dressing. She combines pineapple, mango, kiwi, and berries for a colorful and flavorful dish that's perfect for summer.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares her tips and tricks for making a meal come together quickly and easily. She emphasizes the importance of having a well-stocked pantry and freezer, so you're always prepared to whip up a meal at a moment's notice. She also offers suggestions for keeping things simple, such as using pre-prepared ingredients like store-bought pie crusts and chicken stock.

As always, Garten's warm and welcoming personality shines through in this episode. She encourages viewers to have fun in the kitchen and not to stress out over cooking for friends and family. With her easy-to-follow recipes and helpful hints, anyone can become an impromptu dinner whiz like Ina Garten.

Overall, this episode of Barefoot Contessa is a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to throw together a delicious meal in a pinch. Whether you're hosting unexpected guests or simply don't have time to plan an elaborate dinner, Garten's tips and recipes will help you put together a meal that's both impressive and easy to make.