Ep 17. Airy Pasta Pillows

Lidia's Italy season 3 episode 17, Airy Pasta Pillows, takes viewers on a culinary journey through the beautiful region of Emilia-Romagna in Italy. Lidia Bastianich, the famous cookbook author, and chef, shares her love for this region's unique pasta dishes and the history behind each one.

In this episode, Lidia starts her journey by visiting a local cheese producer and learning about how Parmigiano-Reggiano is made. She then heads to the town of Modena, where she discovers the secrets behind the famous balsamic vinegar that the region is known for.

After learning about the ingredients used in the local cuisine, Lidia heads to the kitchen to prepare the star of the show, Airy Pasta Pillows. This dish is a classic from the region and is also known as tortellini. Lidia explains the process of making the pasta from scratch, and viewers get to see the different shapes and sizes that can be created.

Lidia then prepares two different fillings for the tortellini, one with spinach and ricotta, and another with prosciutto and mortadella. She explains how each filling complements the pasta in its own unique way and shows how to shape and fill the pasta pillows.

Lidia then demonstrates how to cook the tortellini in chicken broth with fresh vegetables, creating a delicious and comforting soup. She also prepares a second dish using the same tortellini, but this time with a rich tomato and cream sauce.

Throughout the episode, Lidia provides tips and tricks for creating the perfect pasta, including how to avoid overcooking it and how to create pasta that is light and airy.

This episode of Lidia's Italy not only showcases the delicious dishes of Emilia-Romagna but also provides an immersive experience into the history and culture of the region. Lidia's passion for cooking and storytelling shines through each dish as she shares her knowledge and love for Italian cuisine.