Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics Season 1 Episode 21 Fast and Fabulous

In "Fast and Fabulous," Barefoot Contessa Ina Garten shares her tips and recipes for creating quick and delicious meals in a hurry. The episode kicks off with Garten preparing a speedy weeknight dinner of lamb chops with a mustard-rosemary marinade, accompanied by roasted potatoes and vegetables. Next up, she whips up a cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. For dessert, she makes a simple and elegant berry medley with a dollop of vanilla yogurt.

Garten then turns her attention to brunch, sharing her recipe for a crowd-pleasing baked salmon with a lemon-dill sauce, served alongside creamy scrambled eggs and toasted sourdough bread. She also demonstrates how to make a refreshing iced tea with fresh mint and lemon, the perfect accompaniment to any brunch spread.

Moving on to more substantial fare, Garten creates a mouthwatering steakhouse-style dinner at home, featuring juicy ribeye steaks with a smoky rub, crispy onion rings, and a decadent blue cheese sauce. To round out the meal, she prepares a classic Caesar salad with homemade croutons and a tangy dressing.

The episode concludes with Garten's take on a Italian-inspired meal, showcasing her recipe for a speedy and savory shrimp scampi with linguine, dressed in a garlic and lemon butter sauce. She also shows viewers how to make a simple and colorful antipasto platter, filled with cured meats, cheeses, and olives, and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Finally, Garten prepares a light and refreshing Limoncello Ricotta Cheesecake, the perfect end to a fast and fabulous meal.

Throughout the episode, Garten emphasizes the importance of using quality ingredients, even when cooking quickly, and encourages viewers to experiment with different flavors and techniques in their own kitchens. With her down-to-earth approach and easy-to-follow instructions, "Fast and Fabulous" is a must-watch for anyone looking to elevate their weekday meals or impress dinner guests in a pinch.