Ep 24. From Italy to America

Lidia's Kitchen is a cooking show hosted by renowned chef, Lidia Bastianich, where she shares her favorite recipes from her Italian heritage and her travels across America. In season 7 episode 24, titled "From Italy to America," Lidia focuses on dishes that showcase the culinary influences between the two countries.

The episode begins with Lidia in her kitchen, preparing a classic Italian dish of pork chops with vinegar peppers. She talks about how this dish gets its unique flavor from the combination of sweet and sour flavors, which is a common theme in many Italian dishes. Lidia also explains how Italian immigrants to America adapted their traditional recipes to suit the ingredients that were available in their new home, resulting in delicious fusion dishes like spaghetti and meatballs.

Next, Lidia travels to Brooklyn, where she meets with a group of Italian-American women who gather regularly to cook together and share their recipes. Lidia is treated to a feast of dishes that showcase the diverse culinary influences of Italian immigrants in America, including lasagna with meat sauce, chicken and sausage cacciatore, and stuffed artichokes.

Back in her kitchen, Lidia demonstrates how to make a classic American brunch staple - pancakes - with an Italian twist. She adds ricotta cheese and lemon zest to the batter, giving the pancakes a light, fluffy texture and a citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh berries and maple syrup.

Later, Lidia makes a quick and easy pasta dish that combines Italian and American flavors. She starts by sautéing garlic and anchovy in olive oil, then adds sliced peppers and zucchini for a burst of color and sweetness. Finally, Lidia tosses in cooked pasta and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a simple but satisfying meal that's perfect for weeknights.

For dessert, Lidia prepares a classic Italian favorite - panna cotta - but with a twist. She uses buttermilk instead of heavy cream, giving the dessert a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh berries. Lidia also adds a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch.

Throughout the episode, Lidia emphasizes the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create delicious, healthy meals that celebrate both Italian and American culinary traditions. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these recipes are sure to impress.