I began this process by designing lifestyle classes to teach my patients healthy lifestyle habits through better nutrition and exercise. After all, as a metabolic expert, this is what I was trained to do and spend the majority of my day talking to people about. These cooking classes evolved in response to my patients requesting a hands on approach to what eating healthier looks like and how best to accomplish this. I already had a lot of recipes and ideas that came from my family’s experiences of trying to adjust our favorite dishes to accommodate a busy lifestyle, family, and my newly diagnosed gluten allergy. Once we get past the hurdles of learning about what gluten actually is, the focus usually turns to everything you can’t eat and eventually you get bogged down in a deprivation spiral. The transition to a healthier lifestyle seems impossible because the options are either too limited or too confusing.
In these cooking classes we will focus on healthy, gluten free, often low-carb meals with the busy family in mind. Each class will start with a bite of something that I have already made to whet your appetite. During the class, we will all participate in making another dish for eating now or taking home (if there is any left!) while we discuss the nutrition science behind my choices.
The classes are going to be held at The Commissary so keep an eye out on their website and ours for the sign-ups.
May 8, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Small Bites
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Cauliflower Muffins followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Crustless Quiche Cups.
June 12, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Entrees
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Frittata with Romesco Sauce followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Salmon featuring Various Gluten-Free Grains.
July 17, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Desserts
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Chocolate Chunk Pistachio Butter Cookies followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Fruit Muffins.
Aug. 14, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Small Bites
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Parmesan Spaghetti Squash followed by hands-on recipe instruction for Ricotta-based Wild Rice Cakes.
Sept. 11, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Entrees
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Cold Pasta Salad followed by hands-on recipe instruction for Warm Pasta Stir Fry.
Oct. 23, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Desserts
This class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Spicy Peanut Butter Cookies followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Grapefruit Pound Cake.
Nov. 6, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving-themed class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Cornbread Stuffing followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Pilau, Peas & Pistachios.
Dec. 4, 3-5 p.m.
Gluten-Free Cooking: Christmas
This Christmas-themed class begins with a tasting of Dr. Elena’s Gingersnap Rum Balls followed by hands-on recipe instruction for her Almond Chocolatina.