Healthy Vittles Cooking Series for the Holiday Season

At Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service, we believe that holiday meals should not only bring people together but also nourish both body and soul. Through our Healthy Vittles Cooking Series offered by the Family and Consumer Sciences program, we have empowered individuals and families to celebrate the season with delicious, wholesome dishes that prioritize health, flavor, and community.

This year, we focused on creating a series of interactive cooking classes dedicated to holiday appetizers, side dishes, and desserts—all made with nutritious, seasonal ingredients. By offering easy-to-follow recipes and expert tips, our participants have learned how to prepare holiday favorites that are lower in sugar, fats, and sodium, while still being festive and full of flavor.

Impact Highlights:

• 20 participants attended the series, with a growing number engaging in our upcoming workshops.
• 100% of attendees reported feeling more confident in their ability to prepare healthier holiday meals for their families.
• Families, particularly in underserved communities, have shared that the series has helped them incorporate healthier eating habits into their holiday traditions, improving their overall well-being.
• We’ve seen an increase in community collaboration, with local food banks and markets partnering with us to provide affordable, fresh ingredients to those in need.

Through these hands-on experiences, we’re not just teaching people how to cook—we’re helping to foster healthier lifestyles that last beyond the holiday season. As we continue to expand our programs, we aim to reach even more families and individuals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy nutritious, home-cooked meals year-round.

Together, we are making healthful, festive dining accessible to all, one recipe at a time.