30 Minute Meals Season 3 Episode 7 Greek Tapas

Welcome to 30 Minute Meals Season 3 Episode 7, entitled "Greek Tapas." Host and celebrity chef Rachael Ray takes us on a journey to Greece in this episode, sharing her love for Mediterranean flavors and simple yet delicious meals that can be prepared in just 30 minutes.

Rachael begins the episode by introducing us to her concept of "Greek Tapas," which is a collection of small plates typically served in Greek tavernas. Rachael explains that while these plates may seem small, they are packed with bold flavors and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

The first dish Rachael prepares is a Greek-style shrimp saganaki. Saganaki is a popular Greek appetizer that consists of seared cheese topped with various ingredients. In this case, Rachael adds garlic, onion, tomatoes and shrimp to the dish, and uses feta cheese as the base. The result is a beautifully melted and creamy dish that is bursting with bright and fresh flavors.

Next, Rachael moves on to her spinach and feta stuffed chicken breasts. This dish is a spin on the classic Greek spanakopita, but instead of using phyllo dough, Rachael stuffs chicken breasts with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, garlic and lemon zest. The chicken is then quickly seared and baked in the oven, creating a crispy and flavorful exterior with a moist and tender center.

For the third dish, Rachael prepares a Greek salad with grilled chicken. This recipe is a simple yet satisfying classic Greek salad, featuring fresh vegetables such as cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Rachael also adds crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a homemade lemon vinaigrette for a bright and refreshing finish. To make it a more substantial meal, she tops the salad with grilled chicken breasts seasoned with oregano and garlic.

The final dish of the episode is a watermelon and feta salad. This dish is a perfect summer snack or light dessert, featuring sweet and juicy watermelon paired with tangy feta cheese. Rachael adds fresh mint and a homemade balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors and balance out the sweetness of the watermelon. The result is a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Throughout the episode, Rachael shares tips and tricks for working with Greek flavors and ingredients. She explains how to properly cook and season shrimp, how to stuff a chicken breast without overfilling it, and how to make a simple yet flavorful lemon vinaigrette. She also talks about her love for Mediterranean cooking and how it has influenced her own cooking style.

In conclusion, "Greek Tapas" is a delightful episode of 30 Minute Meals that showcases the best of Greek cuisine in a fun and approachable way. Rachael Ray's easy-to-follow recipes and helpful tips make it easy for viewers to recreate these dishes at home and impress their friends and family with bold and flavorful Mediterranean flavors.