Ep 1. Like a Pro: Store-Bought is Fine
- October 27, 2019
In the first episode of season 27 of Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten encourages viewers to embrace the convenience of store-bought ingredients to elevate their cooking skills. Garten puts together a delicious and easy meal including a creamy tomato bisque, garlic bread and a charcuterie board.
Garten's first dish, the creamy tomato bisque, comes together quickly with the help of canned San Marzano tomatoes. She adds in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices to create a silky smooth soup that is perfect for the cooler months. Garten also shares a useful tip for removing the skins from the canned tomatoes before blending, making the process even simpler.
Next, Garten shows viewers how to take store-bought garlic bread to the next level with her own special garlic butter blend. She mixes butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon zest, slathers it on pre-made garlic bread, and bakes it to perfection. The result is a crispy and flavorful bread that pairs perfectly with the creamy tomato bisque.
Garten's last dish is a gorgeous charcuterie board that is sure to impress any guests. She explains how to select the right meats, cheeses, and accompaniments to create a well-balanced board. Garten includes an array of delicious items like prosciutto, soppressata, brie, and grapes, and shares tips on how to present them in an elegant and appetizing way.
Throughout the episode, Garten emphasizes the importance of simplicity and convenience in cooking, and encourages viewers to not be afraid of using store-bought ingredients to create delicious meals. Her recipes are approachable and easy to follow, making this episode a great starting point for anyone who wants to improve their cooking skills.
