Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 3 Episode 6 Flash in the Pan

In season 3 episode 6 of Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian, titled "Flash in the Pan," Melissa shares some delicious and affordable recipes that can be cooked quickly. With busy schedules and limited time, quick and easy meals are a necessity in many households, and Melissa has some tricks up her sleeve to achieve this without compromising on flavor.

Melissa starts off with a recipe for a simple yet flavorful dish called "Poached Salmon with Mustard-Dill Sauce." This dish can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The salmon is poached in a fragrant broth made with white wine, herbs, and vegetables, giving it a delicate and subtle flavor. The sauce, made with dijon mustard, sour cream, and fresh dill, provides a tangy and creamy complement to the salmon. Melissa pairs the dish with a side of roasted vegetables, adding a colorful and nutritious element to the meal.

Next up, Melissa shows how to make a hearty and satisfying vegetable and barley soup. This dish is packed with wholesome ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms, making it a nutritious option for the whole family. The barley adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the soup, while the herbs and spices give it a warm and comforting taste. Melissa emphasizes the importance of making your own broth instead of using store-bought options, as it not only saves money but also allows you to control the sodium levels and flavor of the soup. This recipe can also be easily adapted to include different vegetables based on what's in season or in your fridge.

For the main course, Melissa shares a recipe for a classic Italian dish called "Pasta alla Carbonara." This dish is made with simple ingredients like eggs, bacon, and Parmesan cheese, but when combined, they create a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Melissa uses spaghetti for this recipe but notes that any type of pasta will work. She also recommends using only egg yolks instead of whole eggs, as it creates a more luscious and velvety texture. This dish can be made in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick and comforting dinner.

Last but not least, Melissa prepares a dessert that's both easy and decadent. Her recipe for "Dark Chocolate Bark with Nuts and Dried Fruit" is a great option for those with a sweet tooth but limited time. The dark chocolate is melted and spread out onto a baking sheet, then topped with a variety of nuts and dried fruits. The combination of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. Melissa notes that you can use any nuts and dried fruits you have on hand, making this recipe a great way to use up any leftover ingredients in your pantry.

Overall, "Flash in the Pan" showcases how quick and easy meals can also be delicious and affordable. Melissa's recipes are perfect for those with busy schedules who still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple and straightforward techniques, she proves that anyone can cook a flavorful and satisfying dinner in no time.