University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) programs are designed to teach people of all ages basic skills that will last a life-time. One of the most common skills taught is cooking. Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) agent, Joni Phelps, held Basic Homemade Pasta Workshops in 3 locations in Western Kentucky sharing her love for Italian cuisine. The workshops began with an introduction to the history of pasta and its various types. Twenty-eight (28) participants learned about the ingredients, including different flours and egg ratios, and how each ingredient contributes to the texture and flavor of the pasta. Participants learned about different tools that can be used to make different types of shapes of pasta. 

Hands-on practice was a crucial part of the workshop. Participants individually kneaded their dough, rolled it out using traditional pasta rollers, and cut it into various shapes, such as fettuccine and ravioli. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter, and the delicious aroma of fresh pasta wafted through the kitchen.  Skills and techniques that were taught included mixing and kneading pasta dough. The participates were taught how to roll out dough to the perfect thickness for various pasta types while cutting and shaping pasta with precision. It was also important to teach the participants how to understand the importance of cooking times and sauce pairings and that different types of flour that can be used.

The "Homemade Pasta Workshop" was not just about cooking; it was about community, sharing, and building connections through food. Participants left the class with valuable skills and the desire to spread their knowledge, enriching their lives and those of others. The ripple effect of this workshop continues, as each participant shares their passion for homemade pasta with friends and family, creating new memories one plate at a time. One participant organized a pasta night with friends, explaining the techniques she learned. She encouraged everyone to get involved in the cooking, emphasizing that making pasta together was a great bonding experience. The night was filled with laughter, delicious food, and the promise of more shared meals to come.