Ep 25. Summer Picnic Party

In this episode of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Summer Picnic Party," hosts Bridget Lancaster and Julia Collin Davison take on the challenge of creating the perfect picnic menu for a fun summer outing. The hosts start by looking at classic picnic foods like fried chicken and potato salad and work to develop recipes that elevate these dishes to new heights.

The first recipe tackled is fried chicken, a staple of any picnic menu. The hosts begin by examining what makes for the perfect fried chicken - it should be crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. They experiment with different coatings and frying techniques before landing on a recipe that delivers on all fronts.

Next up is potato salad, another classic picnic dish. The hosts explore the many variations of potato salad, from the mayonnaise-based version popular in the south to the German-style potato salad made with vinegar and mustard. They work to develop a recipe that strikes a balance between the creamy texture of the mayo and the tangy flavor of the vinegar.

For dessert, the hosts prepare a fruit tart using fresh summer berries. They take on the challenge of creating a tart shell that is both flaky and sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy fruit filling. They also experiment with different methods for preparing the fruit filling, trying out recipes that use gelatin or cornstarch to thicken the mixture.

In addition to these main dishes, the hosts also provide tips and tricks for making the perfect lemonade and creating a beautiful picnic setup. They discuss the best types of containers to use for transporting food, as well as how to keep everything cool and fresh. They also share ideas for adding a touch of elegance to your picnic, such as using real plates and silverware instead of disposable ones.

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in lively discussions about their cooking techniques and share their personal experiences with picnic foods. They offer tips for making preparation easier, such as cooking chicken ahead of time and using store-bought pizza dough for the tart shell.

Overall, "Summer Picnic Party" is a fun and informative episode of America's Test Kitchen that will inspire viewers to get outside and enjoy a delicious meal in the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, there is plenty of valuable information to be gleaned from this episode.