Ep 5. Pasta for Every Palate

In episode 5 of Cook's Country season 8, titled "Pasta for Every Palate," the team takes on the challenge of creating delicious pasta dishes to satisfy different palates. The host, Christopher Kimball, is joined by his crew of expert chefs as they delve into the world of pasta, exploring different types of noodles and sauces.

The episode begins with a visit to the Test Kitchen, where the team explores the array of pasta options available. They discuss the different types of noodles, including spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne, and their best uses in various recipes. They also cover different types of pasta sauces, including tomato-based and cream-based sauces.

Next, the team heads to their on-site kitchen to get started on creating their pasta dishes. Kimball and his team of chefs are joined by a guest, who has a specific dietary requirement that the team must cater to. The guest is looking for a gluten-free pasta dish, and the team is up to the challenge.

The first dish they create is a gluten-free fettuccine alfredo. The team explores different types of gluten-free pasta to find the perfect one for the dish, and they come up with a combination of rice and corn pasta that works perfectly. The sauce is made with a blend of heavy cream and parmesan cheese, which is then mixed with the cooked pasta to create a rich and creamy dish that is both gluten-free and delicious.

The next dish they create is a spaghetti and meatballs, but with a twist. The team creates a pork and beef meatball that is stuffed with mozzarella cheese, ensuring that each bite has a gooey, cheesy surprise. The spaghetti is tossed in a homemade tomato sauce that is made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil, bringing a fresh and tangy flavor to the dish.

The third dish is a spinach and feta-stuffed pasta shell dish, which is perfect for vegetarians. The team creates a filling with spinach, feta cheese, and ricotta, which is then stuffed into cooked jumbo pasta shells. The shells are then baked in a tomato-based sauce, which is flavored with garlic and oregano. The finished dish is both flavorful and satisfying.

Finally, the team creates a classic penne with vodka sauce. This dish includes a tomato-based sauce that is made with crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, which is then flavored with garlic, onions, and, of course, vodka. The penne is cooked al dente and tossed in the sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for any pasta lover.

Throughout the episode, Kimball and his team provide instructional tips and tricks for creating these delicious pasta dishes. From the right way to cook different types of pasta to the best way to make a homemade tomato sauce, viewers will learn how to create restaurant-quality pasta dishes in their own kitchens.

Overall, this episode of Cook's Country season 8 is a must-watch for pasta lovers. With four delicious recipes that cater to different palates, viewers are sure to find a new favorite pasta dish. The team's expert advice and instructional tips make the recipes accessible to cooks of all skill levels, making it easy for anyone to create delicious pasta dishes at home.