Ep 11. Party Fixings

Lidia's Kitchen is an Emmy-winning cooking show hosted by Italian-American chef, Lidia Bastianich. In this season 5 episode titled "Party Fixings," Lidia shares some of her staple recipes for party appetizers and snacks that are sure to impress any guest.

The episode starts with Lidia preparing a classic Italian antipasto platter, featuring a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. She explains that this platter is a staple at any Italian gathering and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions.

Next up, Lidia shows viewers how to make a delicious and simple dip using cannellini beans, garlic, and rosemary. She serves this dip with a selection of colorful crudités, showcasing how easy it is to incorporate healthy and fresh ingredients into any party spread.

For those looking for something a little heartier, Lidia demonstrates how to make mini meatballs using a combination of ground beef and pork. She serves these meatballs with a tangy and bold tomato sauce, perfect for dipping crusty bread into.

To round out the episode, Lidia creates a unique and flavorful crostini using a combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet figs, and salty prosciutto. She finishes off the dish with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme, elevating the simple crostini to a delicious and sophisticated appetizer.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her tips and tricks for entertaining, such as preparing as much as possible ahead of time and keeping things simple and inexpensive. She also emphasizes the importance of presentation, showing viewers how a few simple touches can make even the most basic snack look impressive.

Overall, "Party Fixings" is a great episode for anyone looking to up their entertaining game or simply learn some new and delicious snack recipes. Lidia's warm and approachable style makes the cooking process feel achievable for even the most novice home cooks, and her passion for Italian cuisine is infectious.