Ten Dollar Dinners Episodes
Appetizing Savings
Melissa d'Arabian makes a whole meal inspired by popular appetizers. Bowls of chilled White Gazpacho, Spicy Turkey Lollipops with a raspberry glaze, warm Blue Cheese Fondue, and Crispy Fried Celery Sticks will fill you up without draining your wallet.
Healthy, Wealthy and Wise
Melissa d'Arabian prepares a refreshing Greek-inspired meal that is simple and affordable. Her Greek Salad With Roasted Salmon is a meal-worthy version of the satisfying classic. For dessert, Mocha Granita keeps the menu light while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Chick, Chick, Ole
Melissa d'Arabian serves up the craveable flavors of restaurant-style fajitas on a budget-friendly bill. Her Grilled Chicken Fajita Platter is loaded with strips of lime-marinated chicken breast and veggies, ready to fold into Melissa's Homemade Flour Tortillas. Grilled Tomato Salsa is the perfect topping for this delicious chicken meal.
Back in Tucson
Melissa d'Arabian shares some of her favorite recipes from her childhood in Tucson. Her Arroz Con Pollo features juicy chicken cooked on a bed of seasoned rice with tender onions and sweet bell peppers. For dessert, Applesauce Empanadas are a hit with kids and adults alike. To drink, a pitcher of Garden Iced Green Tea, infused with fresh herbs and lightly sweetened with a touch of honey.
Golden State Gourmet
Melissa d'Arabian draws on California's famous pan-Asian and Mexican cuisines for an affordable fusion meal. Her Roasted Chicken is roasted with aromatic sesame oil and served with mild tomatillo-chile sauce. On the side, Asian Cole Slaw is crunchy and refreshing, tossed in a sesame-ginger vinaigrette.
Little Helpers, Big Brunch
Melissa d'Arabian cooks a weekend brunch menu with two enthusiastic helpers: her daughters. Chocolate-Chocolate-Veggie Pancakes are filled with chocolate flavor and nutrients. Baked Eggs With Chorizo and Cream look elegant and are kid-friendly, cooked in ramekins with a layer of bubbly jack cheese. To drink, Green Morning Smoothies are a fun color and a tasty finale for this delicious, nutritious family brunch.
Diner on a Dime
Melissa d'Arabian whips up a comforting soup and sandwich menu in a matter of minutes. Her Almost Raw Asparagus Soup is an easy way to dress up her perfect Grilled Cheddar Cheese Sandwich. For dessert, Melissa pulls out all the stops on a diner classic: Banana Split.
Catch of the Day Cookout
Melissa d'Arabian takes grilling beyond steaks and burgers with a light fish menu. Her Citrus Tilapia "En Papillote" features delicate tilapia filets grilled in foil packets, served on a bed of baby spinach and topped with her Grilled Summer Relish. For dessert, Grilled Pound Cake gets served with warm grilled peaches and an orange-scented Cream Cheese Glaze.
Saving Quarters in the French Quarter
Melissa d'Arabian serves up the flavors of New Orleans. Her Po' Boys are brimming with crispy, cornmeal-coated shrimp and tilapia, along a creamy garlic spread, lettuce, and tomatoes. On the side, a Refreshing Mint and Celery Salad is fun new way to enjoy a familiar vegetable. For dessert, Easy Coffee Pudding is a nod to the French Quarter's famous cafe culture.
Swine and Dine
Melissa d'Arabian makes a crowd-pleasing Southern meal that stays pleasingly under budget. Her BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are the stars of the menu, doused in homemade barbeque sauce and piled high with tangy shredded carrots. On the side, Sweet Potato and Bacon Tots are a twist on the familiar potato nuggets, served with a creamy Mustard Dipping Sauce. To drink, Caramelized Banana Shakes are thick and creamy, and not to be missed.
Chicken Italiano
Melissa d'Arabian cooks up restaurant-worthy Italian-American recipes with an eye toward her budget. Simple Fritto Misto makes a satisfying appetizer, and her Italian Marinated Chicken With Red Potatoes is a delicious main course. Orange and Basil Biscotti make the perfect dessert, especially with a cup of hot coffee.
Ten Dollar Game Day
Melissa has a tailgate menu to satisfy the hungry masses without breaking a sweat -- or breaking the budget. Her Grilled Spicy Sausages get served with two homemade condiments: a sweet-spicy Onion Marmalade, and a Tomato Chutney scented with herbs de provence. For dessert, Yellow Cakes in a Jar With Chocolate Ganache are a fun and convenient way to bring sweets to the game. Ginger Lemonade is a cool, refreshing drink to wash down this satisfying meal.
Seafood and Sweets
Melissa d'Arabian proves you can serve an elegant seafood meal without splurging on cost. Pasta alla Pescatore takes center stage, with delicate flounder and sweet shrimp in a white wine-tomato sauce. Romaine Salad is a crisp and satisfying side, dressed in a light Parmesan Vinaigrette. For the grand finale, Orange Chocolate Lava Cakes send the meal over the top while staying under budget.
