Ep 2. Outside the Lunch Box

In Top Chef season 7 episode 2, titled "Outside the Lunch Box," the contestants are tasked with creating dishes inspired by school lunches. They visit a local elementary school and learn about the nutritional guidelines and limitations that are placed on school lunches, such as the types of protein, fruits, and vegetables that can be served.

Back in the kitchen, the chefs are given only 30 minutes to prepare their dishes. They are allowed to use any ingredients they want, as long as they meet the nutritional guidelines set by the school. The judges are looking for creativity, taste, and nutritional value.

The chefs come up with a variety of dishes, ranging from turkey and vegetable meatballs to grilled cheese with tomato soup. Some chefs struggle with the challenge, while others excel. The judges are impressed with the chefs who are able to think outside the box and create dishes that are both healthy and delicious.

In addition to the main challenge, the contestants are also given a quickfire challenge in which they must create a dish using only five ingredients. They are given a list of 20 ingredients to choose from, but can only use five. The chefs must be creative and strategic in their ingredient choices, as the judges are looking for dishes that are well-balanced and flavorful.

Overall, the episode is full of fun and creative challenges that showcase the talent of the Top Chef contestants. The judges are tough but fair, and the chefs push themselves to create innovative dishes that meet the nutritional guidelines set by the school. It's a great reminder that healthy eating can also be delicious and exciting.