Barefoot Contessa Season 20 Episode 2 Surprise Italian Party

In Barefoot Contessa season 20 episode 2, titled "Surprise Italian Party," Ina Garten is throwing a last-minute Italian-themed dinner party for her friend, Miguel. She surprises him by inviting his family over from Puerto Rico to celebrate his 47th birthday.

Ina starts by preparing a classic antipasti platter filled with salami, prosciutto, olives, mozzarella, and roasted red peppers. She also makes a simple but flavorful tomato and basil salad, drizzled with a homemade balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing.

Next, Ina moves on to the main course, which is a hearty bowl of pasta. She makes a delicious pasta alla vodka, a classic Italian dish that combines penne pasta, tomato sauce, cream, and a splash of vodka. Ina also prepares a side dish of sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and red pepper flakes, which adds a bit of heat and bitterness to the meal.

For dessert, Ina bakes a classic Italian pastry called sfogliatelle, which is a flaky, layered pastry filled with ricotta cheese and orange zest. She also whips up a bowl of fresh whipped cream to serve on top.

In addition to the food, Ina also takes care of all the little details that make a party special. She sets a beautiful table with Italian-themed decor and candles, and even picks out a bottle of Italian wine to serve with dinner.

Throughout the episode, Ina stresses the importance of being able to throw together a last-minute dinner party without stressing out too much. She emphasizes the importance of simplicity and quality ingredients, and shows how easy it can be to create a delicious meal with just a few key dishes.

Overall, "Surprise Italian Party" is a fun and festive episode of Barefoot Contessa that showcases Ina's skills as a cook and party host. With delicious food, beautiful decor, and plenty of surprises, it's a great watch for anyone who loves Italian cuisine and good company.