August Classes

A Mexican Summer Feast
Tuesday · August 11 · 7-9pm
taught by Chef Nancy Stark
We can count on Chef Nancy to take us on culinary adventures around the globe. We head south for this class with a fabulous Mexican menu that is perfect for August in Kansas. Nancy will start the evening with Fresh Corn Tamales served with height-of-Summer Tomato Pico de Gallo. Then on to the main course - Carne Asada "The Ultimate Mexican Summer Cookout" with Grilled Steak, Fresh Warm Tortillas, Guacamole, Beans - the works! For the finale - Margarita Sorbet. Wow!
$18 per person, $15 for Merc Owners & Seniors

Perfect Summer Recipes for Fish
Wednesday · August 12 · 7-9pm
taught by Chef Paige Vandegrift
You've asked for a fish cooking class that will help you move beyond the basics, and here it is. Paige will inspire you as she cooks up fish with a wonderful seasonal flavor. Paige will prepare savory Zucchini-Wrapped Fish with Mediterranean Tomato & Olive Vinaigrette. Then enjoy Spanish-style Halibut Roasted on a Bed of Potatoes. And for the salmon lovers - here's a wonderful summer version of Pan-seared Salmon with Southern Crowder Pea Succotash. As if this wasn't all enough Paige will top the evening off with a Peach & Raspberry Gratin!
$23 per person, $20 for Merc Owners & Seniors

Gluten Free Baking 2
Thursday · August 13 · 7-9pm
taught by Mari Ruck
A continuation of our series on gluten free baking that is sure to please. In this class we will concentrate on non-bread baked goods. Starting with breakfast - if you are looking for the perfect pancake that is tasty, easy and freezable...we've got the pancake for you. You'll also learn to make your own gluten free granola bars...chewy or crispy...you choose. For entertaining, we will make an elegant gooey almond cake that everyone (not just gluten free folks) will love. And last...vanilla almond coconut cookies...all from scratch and all delicious. Who knew that gluten free could be so good?
$18 per person, $15 for Merc Owners & Seniors

From the Farm to Your Fork -
a Class on Eating Seasonally and Locally

Tuesday · August 18 · 7-9pm
taught by Nancy O'Connor
For all those who might be participating in our Eat Local Lawrence challenge (and for anyone learning to eat locally) here is a class to support and inspire you. We'll start the evening by snacking on a variety of locally grown and/or produced foods while Nancy cooks up several simple recipes that utilize local ingredients. Enjoy Savory Onion Potato Pie served with a side of Sassy Corn and Cucumber Relish and a piece of warm Rosemary Focaccia. For dessert we'll see what fruit is locally available and build a recipe around it. We'll leave time for discussion about the joys and challenges of eating locally. We'll end class with a few special giveaways and door prizes (of local products of course!)
$15 per person, $13 for Merc Owners & Seniors

Cool Asian Noodles for a Hot Summer
Tuesday · August 25 · 7-9pm
taught by Chef Nancy Stark
Chef Nancy just keeps coming up with new cuisine classes from the Far East. Here's one many of you have requested: cold Asian noodle dishes. What perfect timing for our hot Kansas summer! Enjoy delicious Cool Japanese Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce and Cucumber Relish. Then change cultures with Nancy's fabulous Thai Coconut Rice Noodles. Finish up with Soy Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Tofu. Everyone can enjoy these recipes - including vegetarians!
$18 per person, $15 for Merc Owners & Seniors

The Bounty of Late Summer
Wednesday · August 26 · 7-9pm
taught by Chef Paige Vandegrift
It's the time of year when we all should be inspired to eat locally. But if you need a little help with the beautiful produce you enthusiastically picked up at the Farmers' Market, let Chef Paige inspire you with her depth of knowledge and great seasonal recipes. Paige will start with a Mediterranean Eggplant and Barley Salad. Then enjoy a Provençal Vegetable Tart with Herbed Goat Cheese, and wonderful Roasted Stuffed Zucchini. The meal will end on a perfect note of Cornmeal Shortcakes with Peaches, Soured Cream & Mint. Eat local and love it!
$18 per person, $15 for Merc Owners & Seniors

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