Ep 14. Dinnertime Soup and Sandwich

In the fourteenth episode of season 2 of Lidia's Kitchen, Lidia Bastianich shows us how to make a comforting meal for dinnertime: soup and sandwiches. She begins by preparing a hearty ciabatta bread, sliced and brushed with garlic-infused olive oil and broiled until golden and crispy. She then moves on to making the soup, a delicious and nutritious minestrone filled with veggies like carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans, along with beans and pasta. Lidia garnishes the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Next up is a grilled cheese sandwich with a twist – Lidia's version features prosciutto and arugula, adding a salty and peppery kick to the classic combination of bread and cheese. She uses a mix of Fontina and Parmesan cheese, which melt beautifully and add plenty of flavor. The sandwiches are cooked on a griddle until golden brown and crispy.

Lidia also shares some tips for making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich, including using room temperature cheese (which melts better) and spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread (which creates a crispy crust and prevents the bread from drying out). She also shows us how to build the sandwich with the prosciutto and arugula in between the cheese and bread, ensuring that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her extensive knowledge of cooking and Italian cuisine, as well as anecdotes and family stories that bring a personal touch to the show. Her passion for food and cooking is contagious, and viewers will be eager to try their hand at making the dishes she prepares.

Overall, episode 14 of Lidia's Kitchen season 2 offers a comforting and delicious meal for dinnertime, with a twist on classic soup and sandwich combinations that are sure to impress any guest or family member. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Lidia's expert advice and clear instructions make it easy to recreate these recipes at home.