Ep 5. By the Sea

Lidia's Kitchen is a cooking show featuring renowned chef Lidia Bastianich. In season 8 episode 5, titled "By the Sea," Lidia takes viewers on a culinary journey inspired by her love of the ocean and fresh seafood.

The episode begins with Lidia exploring the beautiful beaches of Salerno, Italy, where she grew up. As she takes in the stunning views of the sea, Lidia reflects on her childhood memories of fishing with her father and preparing meals with the freshest ingredients.

Back in her kitchen, Lidia starts by making a classic seafood stew, or zuppa di pesce. She explains that this dish is a staple in Italian coastal towns, where fishermen bring in their daily catch and sell it directly to the locals. Using a variety of seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and clams, Lidia expertly layers flavors and textures to create a rich and flavorful stew.

Next, Lidia prepares a simple yet elegant dish of linguine with clams. She starts by sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil, then adds in fresh clams and white wine. Once the clams have opened, Lidia tosses in cooked linguine and finishes the dish with a sprinkle of parsley and lemon zest.

For a unique twist on a classic seafood dish, Lidia makes a savory pie filled with mussels and potatoes. She explains that this dish was a favorite of her father's, who loved to cook with whatever ingredients he had on hand. By layering thinly sliced potatoes and mussels in a pie crust, Lidia creates a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

To round out the meal, Lidia prepares a refreshing salad of mixed greens, avocado, and grapefruit. She tops the salad with a tangy citrus dressing and serves it alongside her seafood dishes.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares tips and techniques for working with seafood and creating delicious, seasonal dishes. Her passion for cooking and the ocean shines through in every dish, making "By the Sea" a must-watch for any seafood lover or fan of Italian cuisine.

Overall, Lidia's Kitchen season 8 episode 5 is a celebration of fresh seafood and the coastal Italian culture that inspired Lidia's culinary career. With its beautiful scenery, mouth-watering recipes, and expert cooking advice, this episode is sure to inspire viewers to try their hand at seafood cooking and explore the flavors of the sea.