Cooking classes to start

WSU Wahkiakum County Extension and Wahkiakum County Health and Human Services are presenting the Cooking Fresh series of cooking classes over the next couple of months. Each class will feature instruction on cooking with fresh, nutritious ingredients that are in season and easy to find.

On Tuesday, February 12, volunteer chef Charlene Jeffers will be teaching how to make Skillet Meals. Skillet Meals are easy to make, good for you, and delicious. Often, they can be made with a few simple ingredients that are easy to find, and less expensive and lower in sodium and saturated fat than the pre-made frozen varieties. The class is free, and families and local residents of all ages are encouraged to attend. The class will begin at 4 p.m. at the John Thomas Middle School Multi-Purpose Room.

On Monday, February 25, at 4 p.m., they will offer a cooking class featuring beans and rice. Volunteer chef JoAnn Prestegard will show how to make a low-cost, tasty meal using these lean proteins and whole grains. This recipe will be good for the pocketbook and the heart.

They will also be teaching about cooking greens and growing them at the Community Garden in Cathlamet on March 25 at 4 p.m., with Carol Carver and George Exum, alongside WSU Master Gardeners.

If you’d like to attend any of these free classes, call the Extension office at 795-3278. RSVP isn’t required, but appreciated so that they are sure to have enough food for everyone to try a sample.