The delicious smells wafting down the hall at FCS Friday afternoon are really giving people something to taco ‘bout! If you haven’t heard, ProActive Nutrition (PAN) classes are WellCats’ signature cooking classes held right here on campus. What do employees love about PAN? Ask a couple of regulars, Patti Pulis and Kim Burns.
“First of all, the FOOD! They always pick really good recipes,” Patti says. The most recent menu included black bean tacos with corn salsa, cilantro lime rice, and raspberry scones. Patti is an Office Administrator at the Meadows Center and a devoted PAN class attendee. She chopped fresh raspberries while the instructor showed her kitchen mate how to craft the perfect crumbly dough. Sharing a common experience while bolstering their kitchen skills is one of the perks of class.
Kim, Administrative Assistant III for the Department of Psychology, says that her favorite thing is learning about the health benefits of the ingredients. “I’m dealing with a little bit of high blood pressure, a little bit of high cholesterol. So it helps, learning what’s good,” she says. Guided by WellCats Nutrition staff, participants get to explore health-conscious recipes designed to inspire creativity and curiosity.
What else can you expect to find cookin’ in the food lab? Walnut rosemary-crusted salmon, Gochujang chicken soup, maple vanilla baked pears, and dark chocolate soufflé are just a few of the featured dishes from past PAN classes. “I’m learning about things I would have never thought to cook for myself!” Patti shares, “I definitely use a lot of the recipes I get from here, and I give them out to other people too.” The icing on the proverbial cake? The staff will clean the kitchen! PAN classes are free for all benefits-eligible employees. Whether you’re a rookie chef or a seasoned expert, PAN classes are a great opportunity to discover new dishes and enjoy a meal on us. Check the WellCats Events Calendar for upcoming classes!