Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 2 Episode 2 Penne for Pennies

Melissa d'Arabian is back with another budget-friendly episode of Ten Dollar Dinners. In season 2 episode 2, titled "Penne for Pennies," Melissa shows viewers how to create tasty meals without breaking the bank.

The episode begins with Melissa introducing the theme of the show: using pantry staples to create cheap and delicious meals. She shows viewers her well-stocked pantry, which includes items like pasta, canned beans, and spices. Melissa also explains that she will be using some produce from her backyard garden to create the dishes.

The first dish Melissa prepares is a vegetarian pasta dish that she calls "Penne with Caramelized Onions and Roasted Tomatoes." Melissa starts by caramelizing some onions with a little bit of olive oil and sugar. She then adds in some roasted cherry tomatoes and canned chickpeas. Melissa cooks the penne pasta and adds it to the pan with the other ingredients. Lastly, she adds in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The end result is a delicious pasta dish that is both comforting and budget-friendly.

The next dish on Melissa's menu is a classic meat and potatoes dish. She shows viewers how to make "Budget Shepherd's Pie" using ground turkey and mashed potatoes. Melissa starts by browning some ground turkey in a pan with chopped onions and carrots. She then adds some tomato sauce and frozen corn to the mix. Melissa tops the mixture with creamy mashed potatoes and bakes it in the oven until the top is golden brown. The Budget Shepherd's Pie is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Melissa's final dish is a dessert that is super easy to make but looks impressive. She calls it "Fruit and Yogurt Parfait." Melissa layers Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and granola in a clear glass jar to create a visually appealing dessert. She also shows viewers how to make homemade granola using rolled oats, honey, and cinnamon. The Fruit and Yogurt Parfait is a healthy and delicious dessert that can be made ahead of time.

Throughout the episode, Melissa shares tips and tricks for cooking on a budget. She suggests buying in bulk, shopping for seasonal produce, and using pantry staples to create meals. Melissa also emphasizes the importance of meal planning and sticking to a budget.

In the end, Melissa proves that cooking delicious meals on a budget is not only possible but also fun and creative. With a little bit of planning and some pantry staples, anyone can create tasty meals that won't break the bank.