Episode Description
Spring has officially entered the kitchen, and the crew is leaning all the way in. Michael, Carla, and Clinton kick things off with a spirited debate—everything from whether expensive ingredients make you a better cook to whether recipes should ever be “secret.”
Then things get even better when Carla introduces her culinary producer and longtime friend, Ariane Duarte, who brings serious flavor (and personality) into the mix. From Top Chef stories to behind-the-scenes realities of cooking competitions, Ariane shares how those experiences shaped her—and how food has always been about connection and joy.
In the kitchen, Ariane walks the hosts through a build-your-own crostini situation that’s equal parts elevated and approachable. Starting with homemade focaccia and whipped ricotta, the group layers on bright, seasonal toppings—think smashed peas with herbs, blistered vegetables, and strawberries with balsamic and almonds. The result? A perfect spring entertaining dish that’s flexible, beautiful, and packed with flavor.
Of course, no episode would be complete without a round of Chew It or Screw It, fan mail, and a few wildly off-topic (but hilarious) tangents—because on Chewed Up, the conversation is just as important as the food.
Featuring guest Ariane Duarte
Social- @arianeduartechef
👉 Grab the full recipe + more at: https://www.chewedupshow.com/recipes
Timestamps:
- 00:00 – Cold open chaos + instant jokes
- 00:01 – Spring food debate (and Claude catching strays)
- 00:04 – Should recipes be free?
- 00:07 – Ariane Duarte joins the kitchen
- 00:09 – Crostini concept + focaccia breakdown
- 00:13 – Whipped ricotta + topping prep
- 00:15 – Building the crostini (3 ways)
- 00:21 – Why spring flavors hit different
- 00:22 – Ariane’s Top Chef stories
- 00:28 – Chew It or Screw It
- 00:34 – Fan Mail (bagel controversy begins)
- 00:37 – Fan Giveaway reveal
🙌 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Frontgate → Premium home, kitchen, and entertaining essentials — including Michael Symon’s collection featured on the show.
FreshDirect → Fresh groceries delivered straight to your door.
About Chewed Up
Three lifestyle icons reunite with zero filter, strong opinions, and even stronger flavors. Clinton Kelly, Carla Hall, and Michael Symon are back in the kitchen with comedy, comfort food, and unfiltered conversation — served loud. Episodes drop 3x a week: * Monday – Appetizers * Wednesday – Mains * Friday – Desserts Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss a bite.
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Fan Giveaway
This week’s Giveaway: Carla Hall’s Yo-Yo Craft Kit (DIY kit + video instructions + accessories)
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