Ep 7. Citrus and the Sea

Giada in Italy season 1 episode 7, "Citrus and the Sea," takes viewers on a journey through the beautiful coastal city of Sorrento. In this episode, Giada De Laurentiis is joined by her mother, Veronica, for a picturesque day of cooking along the Mediterranean sea.

The episode begins with Giada and Veronica taking a stroll through the vibrant markets of Sorrento, where they explore the abundance of fresh seafood and exotic citrus fruits. The market is bustling with locals and visitors alike, and Giada stops to chat with some of the vendors to learn more about their products.

After perusing the market, Giada and Veronica head to a local restaurant to indulge in some of the region's best seafood dishes. The menu includes fresh lobster, succulent prawns, and tender calamari, all grilled to perfection on an open fire. As they savor the flavors of the sea, Giada and Veronica discuss their family's love of seafood, and how it has been a constant theme throughout their lives.

Next, Giada and Veronica head to a picturesque lemon grove overlooking the sea. The grove is home to some of Sorrento's most prized lemons, which are larger, sweeter, and juicier than other lemons found throughout Italy. Giada and her mother pick some of the ripe fruit and then head back to the kitchen to create a series of dishes that highlight the bold flavors of the citrus fruit.

The first dish that they prepare is a classic Sorrento specialty – pasta with lemon and ricotta. Giada and Veronica use the traditional recipe, which combines fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and ricotta cheese to create a light and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the delicate pasta.

Next, they make a grilled prawn dish with lemon and herbs. The prawns are marinated with lemon juice and garlic, then grilled until they are perfectly charred on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. They are then served on a bed of fresh herbs, which give the dish a bright and refreshing flavor.

Finally, Giada and Veronica prepare a citrus salad, which showcases the beautiful lemons and oranges grown in the region. The salad is a beautiful mix of colors and textures, with juicy citrus fruit and crisp fennel, all tossed in a light and refreshing citrus dressing.

As Giada and Veronica enjoy their creations on a stunning terrace overlooking the sea, they reflect on the importance of family, tradition, and the beauty of the Italian coastline. "Citrus and the Sea" is a celebration of all that is great about Italian cuisine – fresh, vibrant ingredients, time-honored recipes, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.