Ep 1. The Mediterranean Feast

In the first episode of the popular cooking show Barefoot Contessa, host Ina Garten takes viewers on a journey through the flavors of the Mediterranean. Titled "The Mediterranean Feast," this episode is all about celebrating the fresh, bright ingredients and bold flavors of this sunny region.

As always, Garten's approach to cooking is relaxed and unfussy. She begins by visiting a local specialty store to pick up some fresh ingredients, including aromatic herbs and spices, rich olive oil, and tangy citrus fruits. She then returns to her kitchen to begin preparing the meal.

The first dish on the menu is a simple but flavorful roasted shrimp salad. Garten demonstrates how to roast the shrimp to perfection, and then toss them with crisp greens, juicy grapefruit segments, and a bright citrus dressing. The result is a refreshing and satisfying dish that perfectly captures the essence of the Mediterranean.

Next up, Garten turns her attention to a hearty side dish of herbed couscous. Drawing on her experience living in France, she shares some tips for cooking couscous that's light and fluffy rather than dense and heavy. She then adds a variety of fresh herbs, including mint, parsley, and dill, to bring plenty of flavor to the dish.

For the main course, Garten prepares a classic Mediterranean lamb dish, seasoned with fragrant rosemary and garlic. She demonstrates how to get a juicy, flavorful roast by cooking it low and slow in the oven. To round out the meal, she also prepares a vibrant side dish of roasted vegetables, featuring eggplant, zucchini, and red bell peppers.

Throughout the episode, garden also shares plenty of helpful tips and tricks for home cooks. For example, she demonstrates a quick and easy way to peel and segment citrus fruits, and she explains how to properly season and sear lamb to ensure the best possible flavor.

Overall, "The Mediterranean Feast" is a delightful foray into the bright, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. With Garten's expert guidance, viewers will feel confident in recreating these dishes at home, and will be inspired to continue exploring the rich culinary traditions of this sun-drenched region.