Week 6....Can't Believe It's A Wrap!

Today was a bitter-sweet day as it marked the end of our 6-week summer cooking class. To celebrate the summer squash, tomatoes and pepper we made 2 different types of bruschetta: The classic, tomatoes and basil over toasted bread. The second, sauteed (Yes, the children know what this culinary term means by heart now!) squash and peppers over toasted bread and drizzled with basil oil. Both were crowd pleasures for sure. For dessert, the kids were surprised we didn't roast peaches, saute nectarines as we did in the other classes. That's because I wanted to surprise them with red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting that I made especially for them that earlier that morning. (This treat has become a specialty of mine seem to make it for people who I hold dear) Before devouring the sweet treats the children had to finish their school lunch, so I was unable to see their faces as I was off to work. However the "oh's" and "ah's" they gave as they received each cake was good enough.

I must mention that the children also gave me a sweet treat. They gave me a beautiful folder filled with letters (and drawings) of appreciation which we took turns to read outloud. Some thanked me for being so nice, some recalled their favorite dishes, and all called me "their favorite cooking teacher in the world." Reminds me of when I was young and the teachers I gave this special title to. I am sure my third grade class will come across many "favorites" but I am blessed to have been seen as one of them. It warmed my heart, the same way I hoped to have warm their bellies. Thank you P.S. 11 (especially Deborah for making it possible!) for an extraordinary experience, a warm welcome and heartfelt ending. Well sort of, as I plan on making monthly cooking visits!

In the meanwhile, happy cooking and many blessings!

Week 5! Ice Cream Surprise!

Today we made Summer Squash Ribbons (pappardelle) with a Creamy Tomato Sauce. It's a delicious, light and easy dish that's also a great way to disguise vegetables. Dessert however was sinful: Doughnut Peaches with Caramel and a small scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream. Needless to say that the children gobbled up everything! As we served them dessert the comment was made: What part of this don't you like, the butter or the sugar! I know, I know, perhaps I took a dive in the wrong direction this week with my choice of dessert, but a scoop of ice cream every now and then is perfectly fine. First of all they are children (they will burn in off in no time), two it's summer, three it forms memories, and four life is short and moderation is key! Another reason I love the Let's Move! project. It is not about solely eating vegetables and fruits, it's about finding a healthy balance in terms of food and play. We did just that! After cooking class the children were heading to the pool! Now how perfect is that!