Ep 1. Our Courtyard Cantina

In the season 8 premiere of Lidia's Kitchen, titled "Our Courtyard Cantina," renowned chef Lidia Bastianich takes viewers on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Inspired by the street food and lively atmosphere of a traditional cantina, Lidia prepares a mouthwatering menu of authentic Mexican dishes, perfect for any outdoor gathering or fiesta.

Starting with a refreshing cocktail, Lidia shows viewers how to make a classic margarita with fresh lime juice, tequila, and triple sec. She then moves on to the appetizers, whipping up a flavorful salsa with roasted tomatillos and jalapeños, as well as a zesty guacamole with avocados, tomatoes, and cilantro. Lidia also shares her twist on the traditional Mexican street food, elote, or grilled corn on the cob, by adding a heavenly mix of lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese.

For the main course, Lidia prepares two mouthwatering dishes: chicken tacos and beef fajitas. She begins by seasoning the chicken with a blend of fragrant spices, including cumin, oregano, and paprika, before grilling them to perfection. She then serves them with a selection of fresh toppings, including pickled red onions, sliced jalapeños, and a homemade salsa verde. The beef fajitas are equally impressive, cooked on a sizzling skillet with juicy peppers and onions and served with warm tortillas.

As the meal comes to a close, Lidia shows viewers how to make a decadent dessert, the classic Mexican flan. She combines cream, sugar, and eggs to create a rich custard, before serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce and fresh berries.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares tips and tricks for creating the perfect Mexican-inspired meal, from how to choose the freshest ingredients to techniques for grilling and seasoning meats. With her infectious enthusiasm and passion for cooking, Lidia proves that with a little creativity and a lot of flavor, anyone can create a festive, delicious meal that will transport them to a colorful courtyard cantina in the heart of Mexico.

Overall, "Our Courtyard Cantina" is a must-watch for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine or wants to add a little spice to their outdoor entertaining. Lidia's expert guidance makes it easy to recreate these tasty dishes at home, while her infectious personality and love of food are sure to inspire viewers to try new recipes and experiment with different flavors.