Ep 12. Cook Smart

The Kitchen season 16 episode 12, titled "Cook Smart," is all about helping viewers learn how to cook efficiently and effectively. Hosts Sunny Anderson, Katie Lee, Jeff Mauro, Geoffrey Zakarian, and amiable cookbook author Damaris Phillips are on hand to teach viewers how to streamline their cooking process and save precious time in the kitchen.

The episode starts with a fantastic starter that is an excellent way to whet your appetite and is simple to make - a creamy roasted tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons. Host Geoffrey Zakarian shares his recipe for a flavorful tomato soup that combines roasted tomatoes with basil and cream. For the croutons, simply grill your favorite cheese between two slices of bread before cutting them into bite-size pieces.

Next up, the kitchen crew shares their best time-saving tips for cooking. They dish out some beginner-friendly techniques that will help you save time and make the cooking experience more comfortable. These tips include how to mince garlic like a pro, peeling ginger, and more.

In the second segment, the hosts showcase creative and healthy ways to use canned fruits like peaches and pineapple. Damaris Phillips shares her recipe for a fresh fruit salad with a honey and lime dressing. For a more indulgent dessert, Jeff Mauro gives the viewers his recipe for a boozy 21-and-over rum cake.

The third segment of the episode is all about grilling with an Asian twist. The chefs will grill kabobs, chicken wings, and vegetables. They will also highlight a flavorful marinade that will make the veggies and meat taste divine.

The episode concludes with a creative and delicious way to cook salmon – in baking paper. Sunny Anderson shares her recipe for salmon en papillote, a dish that is sure to impress any dinner guests. The salmon is seasoned with a delightful blend of flavors, including garlic, lemon, and dill. When paired with a side salad and roasted vegetables, this dish is a complete and balanced meal.

Overall, The Kitchen season 16 episode 12 is an enjoyable and informative episode that teaches viewers how to cook smarter, save time, and still cook a flavorful and healthy meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this episode is a must-watch.