Lidia's Kitchen

Summertime recipes always create a colorful dish that allows the ingredients to shine. First, I make a beautiful Shrimp and Melon Salad with Basil Mint Pesto. I connect with my grandson, Lorenzo, to see his version of my Peaches in White Wine. Then a family favorite, Mezze Rigatoni with Raw Tomato Sauce – with no cooking, it is a dish that truly celebrates the freshness of the summer season!

Nothing compares to the anticipation of summer. Zucchini Soup with Eggs and Cheese is my version of stracciatella, which I served to my grandkids when they were little. I reminisce about Grandma whenever I shell fava beans myself, waiting for the crowd to come and enjoy this dish, Fava Beans with Mint. Shrimp and Tomato Risotto sings of summer, but it could be made any time of year.

I remind you that cooking can be cost effective with a bit of creativity. And share a cost-cutting complete meal, with my Vegetable Soup with Poached Eggs. Then my friend, Mark Randall, a honey-maker, calls to discuss a traditional Italian cookie that he stretches into two desserts by adding them to his honey ice cream. And a Poached Chicken Giardiniera Salad easily makes two meals out of one.

It’s important to slow down and give cooking the time it deserves. Mussel Bruschetta always makes me think fondly of my long lunches in Fiumicino. Remember that collection of frozen food scraps, water, and time can turn into a rich stock. The fun of this Spicy Lobster Linguine is seeing everyone slowly work through it with their hands…it’s a memory maker! Let the kitchen be your place of peace.

I live by the seasons. It’s just what feels natural to me. Flavoring risotto is all about capturing the tastes & aromas of the season and Risotto with Asparagus & Favas sings Spring! Roasted Cranberries & Pears over Ice Cream is a versatile favorite. On Sundays, my grandma baked a tart like this Leek and Ricotta Tart, starring the vegetables from the garden. Trust me, let the seasons guide you.

For me, there is nothing more important than gathering around the table. This Balsamic Chicken Stir Fry is a favorite at our table.. I connect with my friend, Mimi Thorisson, a cookbook author living in Torino, who shares her take on the traditional Frico. To finish a simple sweet Grape & Ricotta Pizza. I will always hold onto the memories of my family meals with joy & I want that for you too.

Italy boasts over 2,500 traditional varieties of cheese! And I introduce a few to you today. These crispy cheese bowls are fun to make and a playful way to serve a salad. Back in the 1970s, I came up with this Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni for my kids. Chicken wings are always welcome in my house. Even better…make them Cheesy Baked Chicken Wings! Find out what your favorite Italian cheese is with me!

There are occasions where a recipe calls for more time, more hands, more fun in the kitchen together. Lorenzo and Julia always help with these crowd pleasing fried Panzerotti. In this recipe, Ricotta Soup, the ricotta becomes the dressing for freshly cooked pasta. It’s light and delicious. These Gnocchi with Sauce from Erice come together quickly with helping hands.

I invite you into my kitchen with a seasonal specialty - Shaved Artichoke, Spinach & Mortadella Salad. Lidia reminds Ethan that mastering Spaghetti with Garlic & Oil can make for endless possibilities with little effort for big flavor. She makes her weeknight twist on a meatloaf - Skillet Ricotta Mini-Meat Loaves. Showstopping and easy go hand in hand with Lidia’s warm welcoming meal.

Cooking is a journey and should be just as enjoyable as the feast. It may take some time & planning, but this Focaccia di Recco is filled with cheese and irresistible. Let’s explore all things olive oil with my grandson. I love risotto, so when I find a new way to enjoy it I am more than happy to share it, like this Barley Risotto with Cabbage & Sausage. Focus on the here and now in the kitchen.

I say it every time and I’ll say it again…there is nothing more important than gathering around a table. Onion & Potato Gratin is a great dish for a large group it goes into the oven with easy prep. The aroma of this Rosemary Chickpeas brings back so many childhood memories. Pork Chops with Mushrooms and Pickled Peperoncini comes together in one pan. It’s simple…cook, sit down together & enjoy.

This show is all about making your life easier. I remind you to think of recipes as roadmaps, that you can - and should - personalize. I share a Winter Minestrone that can use any kind of hearty green and a Matalota-Style Mixed Fish Stew that can change according to market availability. So go ahead and play with what you have to create something just for you!