Learning to prepare unique or popular meals kicks off a series of new, non-credit classes offered through Grayson College’s Culinary Arts program. These two-day classes provide hands-on kitchen experiences, and students get to eat their work.

Three classes are slated for July and August: “International Cooking”, “Healthy Cooking” and “Parent and Me.” The first is “International Cooking: Italy and Asia,” that will meet Tuesdays from 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. on July 24 and 31. Students will learn how to make traditional Italian dishes such as risotto and fresh pasta.  In the second part of this class, students will be exposed to the cuisines of various Asian countries such as Thailand, Japan and China.  The fee for the course is $100.

“Healthy Cooking,” which meets from 9:00 am-1:00 pm on Thursdays, July 26 and August 2, introduces a variety of contemporary healthy cuisines such as ancient whole grains, meat alternatives, gluten-free cooking and low calorie recipes.  Topics will include portion sizes and nutritional facts of various recipes and ingredients. The fee for this course is $100.

A unique course that allows a parent and child to learn together is available in “Parent and Me.” This fun class includes ‘kid friendly’ recipes, and is open to an adult and child (ages 8-15) team. The class is designed to get children excited about helping out in the kitchen. Class will meet on Thursdays, Aug. 2 and 9, from 3:00-5:00 pm. Course fee is $125.

Rusty L. Weatherly, M.S., director of hospitality management and culinary arts at Grayson College

Pre-registration is required for any of these classes and may be completed through the GC Center for Workplace Learning. Registration may be completed online at www.cwlgcc.org, or by phone at 903-463-8765 if paying with MasterCard, Discover or Visa credit cards.