Dishing It Out

Bestselling author and “Barefoot Contessa” host Ina Garten is ready for a downhome chat.

Set aside Dec. 2 to tune into a virtual evening with Garten when she dishes up some delicious conversation with comedian/author Michael Ian Black.

Brought to you by Miami’s Arsht Center, the virtual book fest will also include a copy of Garten’s new book “Modern Comfort Food: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook” which features 85 new recipes – many inspired by ramped up childhood favorites.

Included in the mix are Cheddar and Chutney Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Smashed Hamburgers with Caramelized Onions, and Crispy Hash Browns made in a waffle iron. The recipes are simple, but are infused with immense flavor. 

“I would take each recipe and look at it and say, ‘How can I make this better and easier to make?’” she told the Twin Cities Pioneer Press. 

And how did Garten decide which ones should make the cut? “When I’m done testing a recipe and I hand it to my assistant and ask them to make it, and when she’s done making it, she wants to go home and make it for her family that day then I know it’s a good recipe for the cookbook.” 

The event, presented with the National JCC Literary Consortium, will definitely provide food for thought. 

For more information, call 305-949-6722 or visit arshtcenter.org.