Ep 19. Home Cooked Restaurant Classics

Lidia's Kitchen season 7 episode 19, titled "Home Cooked Restaurant Classics," is a celebration of classic dishes that can be easily recreated at home. Host Lidia Bastianich takes the viewer on a journey through some of her favorite recipes, sharing her techniques and tips along the way.

The episode begins with Lidia preparing a simple and delicious starter, prosciutto and melon. She explains how the sweetness of the melon pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Next up is one of Lidia's signature dishes, linguine and clams. She prepares the dish in a traditional Italian style, with a simple yet flavorful sauce made from garlic, white wine, and clams. The dish is finished off with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, giving it a bright and fresh taste.

Moving on to the main course, Lidia shares her recipe for chicken cacciatore. The dish features juicy chicken thighs cooked in a rich tomato sauce with mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. Lidia explains that this dish is perfect for a cozy night in with the family, and encourages viewers to make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and delicious meal anytime.

To accompany the chicken cacciatore, Lidia prepares a classic side dish of roasted potatoes. She explains her technique for achieving the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft and fluffy interior, and encourages viewers to experiment with different types of seasoning to create unique variations of the dish.

Finally, Lidia finishes the meal with a classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. She shows viewers how to create the perfect creamy, coffee-flavored layers, and encourages them to get creative with their presentation by using different types of serving dishes or garnishes.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her passion for cooking and her appreciation for the traditions and techniques of Italian cuisine. She encourages viewers to experiment with these classic dishes and make them their own, and reminds them that the most important ingredient in any recipe is the love that goes into it.

Overall, "Home Cooked Restaurant Classics" is a delicious and inspiring episode of Lidia's Kitchen that showcases the beauty and simplicity of classic Italian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire you to get into the kitchen and start creating your own restaurant-quality dishes at home.