Ep 2. Italian

Joanna Gaines returns in season 2 of Magnolia Table, and in episode 2, she takes a culinary trip to Italy. The episode is aptly named "Italian," and it's all about exploring the flavors and traditions of Italian cuisine.

The episode begins with Joanna explaining why she loves Italian food, citing its simplicity and use of fresh ingredients. She also notes that Italian food is all about bringing people together around the table, and that's something that resonates with her.

After introducing the theme of the episode, Joanna gets to work in the kitchen. She starts by making homemade pasta, a staple of Italian cooking. She walks viewers through the process of making pasta from scratch, explaining how to mix the ingredients and knead the dough. She also demonstrates how to use a pasta machine to roll out the dough and cut it into the desired shapes.

Next, Joanna moves on to the main course. She prepares a classic Italian meatball recipe that's been passed down in her family for generations. She explains that the key to a great meatball is using a combination of beef, pork, and veal, as well as fresh breadcrumbs and plenty of herbs and spices. She also demonstrates how to make a simple tomato sauce to serve with the meatballs.

In addition to the pasta and meatballs, Joanna also makes a few side dishes to round out the meal. She prepares a simple salad of arugula, shaved parmesan cheese, and lemon juice, as well as roasted carrots and a charred broccoli dish that's tossed in a garlic and chili oil.

Throughout the episode, Joanna shares tips and tricks for cooking Italian food, as well as stories about her own experiences with the cuisine. She also highlights some of the unique flavors and ingredients that make Italian cooking so special.

As the episode concludes, Joanna sets the table and invites her family and friends to join her for the Italian feast. They sit down together to enjoy the pasta, meatballs, and sides, along with glasses of red wine and plenty of laughter and conversation.

Overall, "Italian" is a delightful episode of Magnolia Table that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of Italian cuisine. Joanna Gaines' passion for cooking and entertaining shines through in every segment, and viewers will be inspired to try their hand at making their own pasta and meatballs at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this episode is sure to leave you hungry for more.