Gatherings focused on learning about cooking, particularly Italian cuisine, hold profound significance beyond simply mastering culinary techniques. These gatherings foster a sense of community and connection, providing a platform for individuals to share cultural traditions and stories through the universal language of food. Exploring Italian cuisine, renowned for its rich history and diverse regional flavors, not only cultivates culinary skills but also deepens appreciation for cultural heritage. Moreover, cooking together promotes teamwork, communication, and creativity as participants collaborate to prepare and savor delicious dishes. Such gatherings serve as opportunities for learning, bonding, and celebrating the joys of food, ultimately enriching lives and forging lasting memories.

Pennyrile Area FCS Agents partnered with Pennyrile Area Homemakers to plan and offer a seminar, “Pizza A’ More,” to help participants learn how to make pizza, pasta, pasta sauces, as well as types of oils used in cooking. Educational sessions were taught by FCS Agents in Livingston, Lyon, and Todd counties, along with the area NEP Agent. One hundred-five people attended the seminar and 90 completed the evaluation.

Results showed: 90% became more aware of the importance of letting pizza dough ferment before using; 100% increased their knowledge about pressing and stretching pizza dough; 94% learned more about using a pizza stone and pizza peel; and 93% gained a better understanding of types of oils and their uses. When asked how likely they were to prepare the items: 83% said they were very or somewhat likely to make homemade pizza dough; 61% were very or somewhat likely to prepare homemade pasta sauce; 42% were very or somewhat likely to try homemade whole wheat pasta; and 89% were very or somewhat likely to make their own homemade pizza or pasta sauce.

One participant commented, “It seemed intimidating but now it doesn’t.” Another said, “We will be eating homemade pizza tomorrow.”