Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics Season 12 Episode 2 Deans for Dinner

In the second episode of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 12, titled "Deans for Dinner," Ina Garten showcases her expertise in whipping up fancy dinners with some simple and hassle-free cooking techniques. Garten invites the dean of her former culinary school, Michael Symons, and his wife to her home for dinner. She plans an elegant, three-course meal menu for the dinner party that is both impressive and easy to prepare.

The episode begins with Garten teaching viewers how to prepare a flavorful and aromatic Tuscan roasted potatoes dish that serves as the perfect side for any roasted meats. The recipe calls for a simple combination of baby Yukon gold potatoes, olive oil, fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic - all roasted together in the oven to a perfect golden brown.

Next, Garten moves on to main course preparation and shows viewers how to make her favorite dinner party dish - filet of beef with a mushroom sauce. She shares some valuable tips on how to cook the meat perfectly, making it tender and juicy. The recipe features lightly sautéed mushrooms in a garlic and onion infused cream sauce that is both rich and savory.

For a sweet ending to the meal, Garten prepares a classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. She prepares the dish in individual servings, which is a delightful way to end the meal and impress guests. Her recipe consists of layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liquor, with a mixture of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream, then dusted with cocoa powder on top.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares her entertaining tips and tricks, teaching viewers how to impress guests with a beautiful table setting and quick and easy kitchen hacks to make cooking stress-free. She also emphasizes the importance of keeping things simple and easy, making it easier for hosts to have fun while entertaining their guests.

The episode features some heartwarming conversations between Garten and Michael Symons, reflecting on their culinary school days and how their paths have diverged and evolved over the years. The camaraderie and love between the two friends add a personal touch to the episode, making it all the more enjoyable to watch.

Overall, "Deans for Dinner" is a great episode for anyone looking to host a sophisticated dinner party without the stress and fuss that often comes with meal preparation. Garten's signature simplicity and elegance shine through in each of the dishes, making it easy for even novice home cooks to prepare a restaurant-quality meal to impress their guests.