Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello

Watch Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello

  • 2005
  • 10 Seasons
  • 7.8  (40)

Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello is an engaging and informative cooking show airing on Food Network. Hosted by renowned chef Michael Chiarello, the series premiered in 2003 and features a unique approach to cooking, entertaining and hosting guests. The show highlights Michael's exemplary culinary skills as he shares his tips and tricks for creating delicious, seasonal dishes without sacrificing taste, aesthetic appeal or ease of preparation. Each episode features Chiarello planning and executing a themed dinner party, with a focus on using fresh ingredients that can be easily sourced. Chiarello's Italy-meets-California style of cooking is apparent throughout the series, as he takes viewers on a journey through his Italian heritage while showcasing his knowledge of flavors and techniques. Whether he is grilling a flank steak marinated in lemon and rosemary, or using seasonal ingredients to create an elegant salad and pasta course, he makes entertaining look easy and achievable for all viewers. One of the most impressive aspects of the series is Chiarello's ability to incorporate wine into his menu. As a winemaker himself, he advises viewers on the best wine pairing for each dish, making the meal complete from appetizers through dessert. Another highlight of the show is the way Michael involves his guests in the cooking process. He asks his guests to help with chopping, cooking and even plating the dishes, making it a true collaborative effort. This approach not only allows the guests to feel more involved and invested in the meal, but it also fosters a sense of community, effectively capturing the essence of entertaining. Joining Chiarello on the show is the eminently talented and delightful Claire Robinson, who serves as a sous chef, sidekick, and all-around clever foil for our host. Robinson, also a chef, is often seen helping Michael with various tasks in the kitchen, picking out ingredients to create a specific recipe, or making cocktails and hors d'oeuvres that bring an added sense of festivity to the party. The charisma, knowledge, and charm of both hosts are what sets Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello apart from other cooking shows of its time. Chiarello's passion for food and hospitality shines through every episode, making for a warm, pleasant experience for viewers. With every recipe comes a detailed explanation of the ingredients used and techniques employed, making the show both accessible and informative for cooks of all skill levels. In conclusion, Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello is a masterpiece of cooking and entertaining that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired for your next dinner party. With its focus on using seasonal ingredients and creative meal planning, the show is perfect for anyone looking to host a memorable event with ease. The show's hosts, Chiarello and Robinson, work together seamlessly, providing viewers with a shared passion for food and wine that is contagious. Their approachable, down-to-earth demeanor makes the show both informative and entertaining, one truly enjoyable to watch.

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Seasons
Pruner's Lunch
13. Pruner's Lunch
August 26, 2008
Michael serves dinner around a campfire of grapevine cuttings during pruning season in Napa. It's a hearty meal of Grilled Pork Chops with Peck Seasoning and Chard Peppers, Shelling Bean Stew and Roasted Banana Boats.
Spaghetti Western
12. Spaghetti Western
August 21, 2008
A day of horseback riding in Napa Valley ends in a cowboy-style picnic. Michael dishes up Grilled Spaghetti, Meatballs in BBQ Gravy, Skillet-Fried Corn and Tomatoes, and Grilled Roasted Garlic-Rosemary Bread.
Not Your Mother's Baby Shower
11. Not Your Mother's Baby Shower
August 13, 2008
Michael celebrates a new arrival with delicious foods and drinks. On the menu is Spring Panzanella, Raspberry Gratin and Slow-Roasted Halibut with Asparagus and Salsa Genovese.
Mustard Party
10. Mustard Party
January 13, 2008
Michael celebrates Napa Valley's mustard season with an all-mustard meal of Fettuccine with Mustard Greens and Mushrooms, Mustard-Crusted Pork Tenderloin and Chicken-Apple Sausage Bites with Hot Sweet Mustard.
Italian Steakhouse
9. Italian Steakhouse
December 23, 2007
Michael cooks up a classic big-meat menu from Italy, including Double Cut Veal Chop Saltimboca and Northern Italian Caponata with Potatoes.
Open House
8. Open House
November 25, 2007
Michael shows how to make an open house easy with a make-ahead menu. Recipes include Mozzarella Stuffed Portobellos, Polenta Lasagna and Rose and Summer Fruit Sangria.
It's the Big One
7. It's the Big One
October 19, 2007
Michael celebrates a big birthday with big food and an even bigger party. Recipes include Crab Cakes Chiarello, Tortellini Salad with Fresh Herb and Tomato Vinaigrette, and Polenta Birthday Cupcakes with Mascarpone Frosting.
Day-After Brunch
6. Day-After Brunch
October 7, 2007
In a season of graduations and weddings, Michael invites his friends and family over to relive events and say goodbye over Egg en Cocotte, White Bean Waffles, Brunch Panzanella and Melon Juice with Champagne.
Drive-In Movie Night
5. Drive-In Movie Night
August 19, 2007
Michael and guests watch movies from the car while munching on spicy Shrimp Po' Boys with Angry Mayonnaise, Warm Basil Gnocchi Salad and Brown Butter Fruit Tarts.
No-Cook Entertaining
4. No-Cook Entertaining
August 5, 2007
Michael keeps it cool with tasty no-cook dishes, including Spicy Melon Salad, Bay Scallop and Grapefruit Ceviche, and Meyer Lemon and Spanish Almond Semifreddo.
Croquet Party
3. Croquet Party
July 29, 2007
Michael makes a light and easy menu of pick-up foods for an afternoon of croquet. Recipes include Bruschetta with Greens, Focaccia "Giana" and Limoncello Spritzers.
Warm Weather Grill
2. Warm Weather Grill
July 8, 2007
Michael Chiarello grills up an outside party. His menu includes "Meat Counter" Mixed Grill with Salsa Verde, Marinated and Grilled Provolone, Grilled Yukon Gold Potatoes with Thyme and Garlic, and Zin-tini.
Stargazing Picnic
1. Stargazing Picnic
July 1, 2007
Michael prepares an easy-to-pack menu for a picnic under the summer stars. Recipe include Piadine with Grilled Chicken and Spinach Salad, Couscous Salad with Honey Vinaigrette and Corn Flour Lemon Cookies.
Description

Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello is an engaging and informative cooking show airing on Food Network. Hosted by renowned chef Michael Chiarello, the series premiered in 2003 and features a unique approach to cooking, entertaining and hosting guests. The show highlights Michael's exemplary culinary skills as he shares his tips and tricks for creating delicious, seasonal dishes without sacrificing taste, aesthetic appeal or ease of preparation. Each episode features Chiarello planning and executing a themed dinner party, with a focus on using fresh ingredients that can be easily sourced.

Chiarello's Italy-meets-California style of cooking is apparent throughout the series, as he takes viewers on a journey through his Italian heritage while showcasing his knowledge of flavors and techniques. Whether he is grilling a flank steak marinated in lemon and rosemary, or using seasonal ingredients to create an elegant salad and pasta course, he makes entertaining look easy and achievable for all viewers.

One of the most impressive aspects of the series is Chiarello's ability to incorporate wine into his menu. As a winemaker himself, he advises viewers on the best wine pairing for each dish, making the meal complete from appetizers through dessert.

Another highlight of the show is the way Michael involves his guests in the cooking process. He asks his guests to help with chopping, cooking and even plating the dishes, making it a true collaborative effort. This approach not only allows the guests to feel more involved and invested in the meal, but it also fosters a sense of community, effectively capturing the essence of entertaining.

Joining Chiarello on the show is the eminently talented and delightful Claire Robinson, who serves as a sous chef, sidekick, and all-around clever foil for our host. Robinson, also a chef, is often seen helping Michael with various tasks in the kitchen, picking out ingredients to create a specific recipe, or making cocktails and hors d'oeuvres that bring an added sense of festivity to the party.

The charisma, knowledge, and charm of both hosts are what sets Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello apart from other cooking shows of its time. Chiarello's passion for food and hospitality shines through every episode, making for a warm, pleasant experience for viewers. With every recipe comes a detailed explanation of the ingredients used and techniques employed, making the show both accessible and informative for cooks of all skill levels.

In conclusion, Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello is a masterpiece of cooking and entertaining that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired for your next dinner party. With its focus on using seasonal ingredients and creative meal planning, the show is perfect for anyone looking to host a memorable event with ease. The show's hosts, Chiarello and Robinson, work together seamlessly, providing viewers with a shared passion for food and wine that is contagious. Their approachable, down-to-earth demeanor makes the show both informative and entertaining, one truly enjoyable to watch.

  • Premiere Date
    July 15, 2005
  • IMDB Rating
    7.8  (40)