Ep 1. Pro: Store-Bought Is Fine

In Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 17 episode 1, titled "Pro: Store-Bought Is Fine," the iconic Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, shares her tips and tricks for making delicious meals with store-bought ingredients. This episode is perfect for anyone who's short on time but still wants to enjoy a homemade meal.

Ina starts off the episode by preparing Roasted Butternut Squash Salad. She uses pre-cut butternut squash and store-bought croutons to save time in the kitchen. She tops it off with a homemade vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and maple syrup for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Next, Ina shows viewers how to make Pasta with Pesto and Peas, a delicious and easy weeknight meal. She uses store-bought pesto and frozen peas for a dish that comes together in just minutes. Ina also shares her tips for cooking pasta perfectly every time and how to add a touch of cream to the sauce to make it extra creamy and delicious.

Ina then moves on to her recipe for Slow-Roasted Spiced Pork, which uses a store-bought spice rub to add flavor to the meat. She pairs it with a simple side of Roasted Carrots and Sweet Potatoes, which are seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

For dessert, Ina prepares a classic New York cheesecake, but with a twist. She uses store-bought graham cracker crust and tops the cheesecake with a homemade blueberry sauce. This delicious dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.

Throughout the episode, Ina emphasizes the importance of using high-quality store-bought ingredients and shares her favorite brands for each ingredient. She also shares tips for making the most out of your store-bought ingredients, such as adding extra flavor to pre-made pesto or using store-bought croutons as a crunchy topping for salads.

Overall, Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 17 episode 1 is a great episode for anyone who wants to learn how to make delicious, homemade meals using store-bought ingredients. Ina Garten's recipes are easy to follow and delicious, making this episode a must-watch for anyone who loves to cook or is looking for inspiration in the kitchen.