The Teaching Kitchen
The Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen provides the community with creative and educational ways to connect through food.
Together we engage in experiences, programs, and hands-on classes to gain skills and confidence in the kitchen, both personally and professionally. We provide fundamental cooking classes, nutrition and health education, and workforce development opportunities for everyone in the community.
Our Approach to Food
Staff and guest presenters encourage curiosity of new cooking techniques and global cuisines to cultivate positive food experiences. We highlight accessible and affordable foods so participants feel empowered to recreate the recipes at home.
Our Approach to Community
We create programs to serve community members of all ages and local organizations. We foster respect of others and all food cultures by providing diverse and inclusive instruction.
Upcoming Classes and Programs
Valentine's Day Strawberry Jelly Roll
Thursday, February 5, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
Bake a delicious sweet for your sweethearts. This strawberry roll cake is decorated with hearts, baked, and filled with strawberry jam.
Quick Dinner Series: Egg Roll in a Bowl
Monday, February 9, 2026 - 6:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
This chicken egg roll in a bowl is a 30-minute meal that blends plant and animal proteins with familiar flavors to create a colorful and energy-boosting dish. We'll enjoy our meal together in the teaching kitchen.
Galentine's in the Kitchen
Thursday, February 12, 2026 - 4:30pm - 7:00pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
Bring your favorite gal pal for a Galentine's Day cooking class. Recipes will include Strawberry and Goat Cheese Crostini, Lobster Ravioli in Brown Butter Sauce, Waffles with Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup, and Chocolate Covered Strawberries. This is a hands-on cooking class. One registration per group of two. Please list additional attendee names at the time of registration.
Cooking Basics: Blackened Salmon
Friday, February 13, 2026 - 11:00am - 12:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will master blackened salmon with a homemade smoky spice crust. We’ll cover seasoning, searing, and simple sides for an easy, flavorful meal.
Soup & Salad: A Cozy Vegetarian Pairing
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will make a comforting but simple vegetarian soup and fresh salad while learning how to bloom spices and whisk up a simple vinaigrette. Together, we’ll create a cozy, flavorful meal perfect for any season.
Cooking Basics: Crepes
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00amAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn how to make sweet crepes from scratch! We'll finish with fruit fillings and a variety of toppings.
Baking Basics: Marshmallow Fondant Snow Friends Cookie Decorating
Thursday, February 19, 2026 - 2:30pm - 4:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Add some sweetness to your winter afternoon! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to make soft, delicious marshmallow fondant from scratch and then learn some fun techniques to use it to decorate adorable snowman and snowflake prebaked sugar cookies. No piping required!
Inclusive Cooks: Chicken Noodle Soup
Friday, February 20, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on cooking series for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and people without, we will prepare a hearty chicken noodle soup recipe. Perfect for cold winter days or when you're feeling under the weather.
Baking Basics: Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Monday, February 23, 2026 - 2:30pm - 4:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
It’s National Banana Bread Day, and we’re going bananas! Join us for a fun, hands-on class where you’ll mash, mix, sprinkle, and bake your way to a tasty Coffee Cake Banana Bread—complete with a buttery cinnamon streusel topping twist that makes every slice irresistible.
Cooking Basics: Chicken Noodle Soup
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Ideal for beginning cooks! In this hands-on class, participants prepare a weeknight chicken noodle soup recipe.
Soup & Salad: A Cozy Vegetarian Pairing
Thursday, February 26, 2026 - 11:00am - 12:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will make a comforting but simple vegetarian soup and fresh salad while learning how to bloom spices and whisk up a simple vinaigrette. Together, we’ll create a cozy, flavorful meal perfect for any season.
Tea Sandwiches & Tea
Saturday, February 28, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Have you ever wanted to host a tea party? In this class we'll make five delicious tea sandwiches and pair them with five different flavors of tea. Learn tips for setting the perfect table and picking the perfect menu to delight your guests.
Cooking for Wellness: Shrimp and Squash Skillet
Monday, March 2, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
For National Kidney Month, come cook a delicious meal while we discuss the special nutrition needs for kidney health and kidney disease. This class is provided through our partnership with Carroll Hospital.
Raspberry Lemon Scones
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Ideal for beginner bakers, participants will make coffeehouse-style scones with raspberry and lemon, topped with a sweet lemon glaze.
Cooking Basics: Pasta Making
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 - 5:00pm - 6:30pmAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn to make fresh pasta from scratch in this hands-on class! You'll mix, knead, roll, and cut dough while practicing making classic shapes like fettuccine.