Ep 1. Cook Like a Pro: Best in Class

In season 18 episode 1 of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics, titled Cook Like a Pro: Best in Class, Ina Garten takes viewers through her tricks for mastering the basics of cooking. Garten showcases simple yet elegant dishes that anyone can recreate at home. She also shares her tips for making food look as good as it tastes, demonstrating that presentation is key.

The episode begins with Garten demonstrating how to make the perfect steak, which is seared to perfection and served with a delicious sauce. She shares her tips for seasoning the steak and cooking it to the desired temperature. She emphasizes the importance of letting the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it to ensure the juices stay in the meat. Next, Garten demonstrates how to make a classic French dish, green beans with shallots. The dish is simple yet elegant and can be paired nicely with the steak.

Garten then moves on to making a tomato and goat cheese tart, which is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. She shares her recipe for the perfect pastry dough and tips for rolling it out evenly. The filling is a delicious combination of fresh tomatoes, goat cheese, and basil. The tart is baked to golden perfection and garnished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

The next dish on the menu is a red quinoa and roasted squash salad dressed with a shallot vinaigrette. Garten demonstrates how to roast the squash perfectly and prepare the quinoa, which is a nutritious and flavorful ingredient. The dish is topped with toasted pumpkin seeds, which add a nice crunch and earthy flavor.

Garten then moves on to making a perfect dessert, a lemon curd tart with raspberries. She shares her recipe for a buttery and crumbly shortbread crust and a tangy and sweet lemon curd filling. The tart is topped with fresh raspberries and whipped cream.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares her tips for making food look as good as it tastes. She emphasizes the importance of careful plating and garnishing to make the dishes look visually stunning. She also shares her tips for making the cooking process easier and more efficient, such as preparing ingredients ahead of time and keeping a clean kitchen.

Overall, Cook Like a Pro: Best in Class is a great episode for anyone looking to brush up on the basics of cooking and learn simple yet elegant dishes. Garten's tips and tricks make the cooking process seem effortless and approachable. The episode is perfect for anyone who wants to impress their guests with beautifully prepared and delicious food.