Ep 7. Breakfast Party

In season 11, episode 7 of Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten plans the ultimate breakfast party menu. With help from her friends, she prepares some of her most lavish breakfast dishes, from savory breakfast tart to creamy cheddar grits topped with crispy bacon. Ina stresses the importance of planning and organization, showing viewers how to keep the party going with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

The episode opens with Ina already hard at work, prepping for her breakfast party. She emphasizes the importance of setting the table the night before, so everything is ready in the morning and the host can relax and enjoy the party. To keep things simple, she suggests using white dishes and a neutral tablecloth, then adding pops of color with fresh flowers and bright linens.

Next up, Ina gets to work on her savory breakfast tart. She starts with a store-bought sheet of puff pastry, which she rolls out and lines a tart pan with. Then, she sautés onions and bacon until crispy, and adds them to the tart with chopped spinach, grated Gruyere cheese, and eggs beaten with heavy cream. The tart bakes for about 40 minutes, until golden brown and puffy.

While the tart is in the oven, Ina prepares her next dish: cheddar grits with crispy bacon. She insists on using stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture, which she cooks in chicken stock until tender. Then, she adds grated cheddar cheese, a little butter, and crispy bacon pieces, stirring until everything is melty and delicious. This comfort food classic is a surefire hit at any breakfast gathering.

To round out her menu, Ina makes a big batch of coffee, served in a pretty carafe with a matching creamer and sugar bowl. She also whips up a simple fruit salad, featuring sliced kiwi, cantaloupe, and strawberries, tossed with a drizzle of honey for sweetness. Finally, she sets out a platter of store-bought croissants and pastries, so guests can choose between sweet and savory options.

As guests arrive, Ina reminds viewers of her planning tips, such as keeping hot dishes in the oven and serving cold dishes at room temperature. She also likes to have plenty of serving utensils on hand, so everyone can help themselves without having to ask for more. With her signature easygoing charm and delicious food, Ina proves that a breakfast party can be just as fun and festive as any other gathering.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares her philosophy on entertaining: that it's all about making people feel welcome and comfortable. She encourages viewers to have fun with their menus and decor, but never at the expense of their own enjoyment. By staying organized and relaxed, anyone can pull off a successful breakfast party that guests will be talking about for months to come.

Overall, Barefoot Contessa season 11, episode 7 is a delightful guide to hosting a breakfast party fit for a queen. With Ina's expert tips and delicious recipes, viewers will be inspired to invite friends over for a cozy morning get-together. It's the perfect chance to try out new recipes, enjoy some great company, and start the day off on a high note.