Barefoot Contessa Season 19 Episode 9 Cooking with Michael Symon

In season 19, episode 9 of Barefoot Contessa, the beloved Ina Garten invites special guest Michael Symon to cook with her in her East Hampton kitchen. Symon, a renowned Iron Chef and co-host of 'The Chew,' joins Garten to create an unforgettable meal bursting with bold flavors and creative twists.

Symon brings his signature flair and love of bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors to the kitchen as he and Garten collaborate on dishes inspired by Symon's Greek heritage. The two friends have a friendly competition as they work together to create a menu featuring classic Greek ingredients and innovative techniques.

The episode begins with an introduction to Symon and his culinary background. He shares his love of bold flavors and cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, which aligns perfectly with Garten's philosophy. The two chefs discuss their mutual love of Mediterranean cuisine and their take on classic Greek dishes, such as grilled lamb chops and spanakopita.

First up is a roasted red pepper tzatziki that introduces Symon's playful, experimental side, as he substitutes roasted red peppers for traditional cucumbers. The result is a tangy, spicy dip that perfectly complements the salty feta and crunchy veggies.

Next, Garten and Symon prepare an updated version of a classic Greek salad, swapping out the usual romaine lettuce for peppery arugula and adding hearty roasted potatoes for a satisfying crunch. This salad is a perfect example of Garten's signature style, which focuses on simple, elegant dishes that highlight the natural beauty and flavors of fresh ingredients.

The main course features succulent lamb chops with a flavorful chimichurri sauce, a nod to Symon's Argentinean heritage. Garten expertly grills the chops to a perfect medium-rare while Symon whips up a quick herb-packed chimichurri that perfectly complements the rich, savory meat.

For the side dish, Symon and Garten work together to create an updated version of a classic Greek dish, spanakopita. Instead of the traditional phyllo dough, Symon uses flaky, crispy puff pastry to envelop the creamy spinach and feta filling. The result is a perfect balance of mouth-watering textures and bold flavors.

To round out the meal, Symon prepares an indulgent dessert that satisfies both the sweet and salty cravings. His chocolate and caramel pot de creme is rich and decadent, with an unexpected pop of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.

Throughout the episode, Garten and Symon's friendship shines through as they laugh, chat, and cook together in Garten's cozy kitchen. Their playful competition and shared love of bold flavors and innovative techniques make for a truly unforgettable meal.

Overall, season 19 episode 9 of Barefoot Contessa is a must-watch for fans of Garten's classic style and Symon's bold, inventive take on Mediterranean cuisine. Garten and Symon's chemistry in the kitchen is infectious, and their collaborative approach to cooking is sure to inspire viewers to try new ingredients and techniques in their own home kitchens.