Ep 7. Holiday Celebrations & Special Occasions

Holiday Celebrations & Special Occasions is the seventh episode of the fifth season of Lidia's Kitchen, a popular cooking show hosted by world-renowned chef Lidia Bastianich. In this episode, Lidia shares some of her favorite Italian recipes for special occasions and holidays, showcasing her passion for traditional Italian cuisine and her ability to make cooking accessible to everyone.

The episode begins with Lidia introducing viewers to two of her favorite holiday dishes: Panettone and Zampone. She explains that Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas bread that is filled with candied fruit and raisins, while Zampone is a large, stuffed pig's trotter that is typically served on New Year's Eve. Lidia then walks viewers through the steps of making both dishes, sharing tips and tricks along the way.

Next, Lidia turns her attention to Valentine's Day, demonstrating how to make a romantic meal for two. She starts with a simple yet elegant appetizer of prosciutto-wrapped figs, followed by a main course of spaghetti alle vongole, or spaghetti with clams. Lidia explains that this dish is a classic Italian seafood dish that is perfect for a special occasion, and that it can be made in just a few simple steps. Finally, she prepares a decadent dessert of chocolate-covered strawberries, showing viewers how to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors.

In the second half of the episode, Lidia shifts gears to focus on Easter, sharing some of her favorite traditional Italian Easter recipes. She starts with a mouth-watering dish of roast lamb leg with rosemary and garlic, explaining that this dish is a staple of the Easter table in Italy. Next, she prepares a colorful and festive Easter bread that is topped with colorful Easter eggs. Lidia explains that this bread is a symbol of rebirth and renewal, and that it is one of the most beloved Easter traditions in Italy.

Finally, Lidia concludes the episode by sharing some tips and tricks for throwing a successful dinner party. She shows viewers how to create a beautifully decorated table setting, offering ideas for centerpieces, placemats, and napkins. She also shares some of her favorite cocktail recipes, including a refreshing Bellini and a classic Negroni. Lidia reminds viewers that the most important thing when hosting a dinner party is to make sure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable, and that the food and drinks are simply there to enhance the experience.

Overall, Holiday Celebrations & Special Occasions is an episode that is sure to delight viewers who love traditional Italian cooking, as well as those who are looking for inspiration for their next special occasion meal. Lidia's warmth and charm shine through in every segment, and her passion for cooking is infectious. Whether you are an experienced home cook or a beginner, this episode is sure to leave you feeling inspired and ready to try something new in the kitchen.