Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 3 Episode 5 Simply Summer

In season 3 episode 5 of Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian, titled "Simply Summer," Melissa invites us to her home to showcase some of her favorite summer dishes that are both delicious and affordable.

Melissa starts off the episode by preparing a refreshing quinoa salad with strawberries, cucumbers, feta cheese, and a honey-lime dressing. She emphasizes the versatility of quinoa and how it can be used to create a variety of dishes, including a simple summer salad like this one.

Next up, Melissa shares her recipe for grilled chicken skewers with a spicy yogurt sauce. She uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor and tenderness. The skewers are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, paprika, cumin, and garlic before being grilled to perfection. The spicy yogurt sauce is made by mixing Greek yogurt, hot sauce, garlic, and lemon juice. Melissa suggests serving the skewers with a side of grilled vegetables or a green salad for a complete summer meal.

The third dish Melissa prepares is a classic summer staple - burgers! Her homemade burger recipe includes ground beef mixed with grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and seasonings. The burgers are then topped with melted cheddar cheese and served on a toasted bun with all the traditional fixings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Melissa also shares some tips on grilling the perfect burger, making sure it's cooked to the desired temperature without being overdone.

To round out the meal, Melissa whips up a quick and easy dessert - grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. She explains how grilling the peaches enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to the dish. The balsamic reduction is made by simmering balsamic vinegar with sugar until it thickens and becomes syrupy. Melissa suggests serving the grilled peaches warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of the balsamic reduction for a simple yet sophisticated summer dessert.

Throughout the episode, Melissa emphasizes the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create delicious meals without breaking the bank. She also shares tips on how to make the most of your grocery budget by planning meals ahead of time, using leftovers in new and creative ways, and shopping for ingredients in bulk.

Overall, "Simply Summer" is a delightful episode that showcases some of Melissa's favorite summer recipes and offers helpful tips for cooking on a budget. It's perfect for anyone looking to enjoy delicious, seasonal meals without spending a fortune.