Explore the art of cooking with hands-on Culinary Arts classes at 577. A long-standing favorite, these classes invite participants to discover flavors from around the world, master comforting classics, explore healthy and plant-based options, create inventive desserts, learn canning techniques, and more.
Designed for all skill levels, our classes provide practical kitchen tips, foundational techniques, and creative inspiration. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your culinary horizons, local chefs and passionate food enthusiasts guide each session in a welcoming, interactive setting.
With new topics each month, classes take place in the Cottage or Virginia’s House, bringing people together to share the joy of cooking and learning.
Upcoming Classes
September classes open for registration on Wednesday, July 30, at 9am. Click HERE to view a full list of upcoming classes.
Homemade Yogurt
Monday, July 14 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Learn how to make your own creamy delicious yogurt at home with just a few simple ingredients. Participants will be guided step-by-step through the process of fermenting milk, choosing the right cultures, and achieving that perfect texture and tang.
We’ll also get hands-on to explore the many ways yogurt can be used in other cooking, from smoothies, dips, dressings, and even baking. Participants will get a chance to make and sample a class-made dip, and everyone will go home with several recipes. A perfect class for beginners and all levels of experience are welcome.
Class Notes: Some samples/recipes contain milk, peanuts, and honey.
Community Instructors: Jan Szalkowski and Wendy Steusloff
Delicious & Healthy Ratatouille
Wednesday, July 23 ~ 3pm to 5pm
Join local family physician and certified culinary medicine specialist, Dr. Humaira Lateef, to explore the dietary pattern and health benefits of a mediterranean diet.
This fun class will have you getting hands-on time in the kitchen making a delicious and healthy Ratatouille that we will enjoy together. Participants will also take home leftover food along with a handout including our Ratatouille recipe, plus valuable information.
Class Notes: To help us honor 577’s commitment to sustainability, please bring a 5 to 7 oz. food container for your leftovers. We recommend everyone bring an apron and a hairnet or head covering.
Community Instructor: Humaira Lateef, M.D. FAAFP, CCMS
Baking Quick & Easy Desserts
Wednesday, July 30 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Learn how to make quick and easy, semi-homemade baked goods, perfect for last-minute treats. Using some store-bought, key ingredients, participants will transform bakery-style croissants into almond croissants, premade pie crust into a rustic mixed berry tart, and frozen puff pastry into a delicious chocolate braid. We will taste everything in class and participants will take home everything they made, plus recipes.
Class Notes: To help us honor 577’s commitment to sustainability, please bring a reusable container for taking your croissants home. Some samples/recipes contain egg, tree nuts, & wheat.
577 Staff Instructor: Beth Phlegar
Canning 101
Monday, August 4 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Monday, August 18 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Learn the process of hot water bath canning from start to finish as instructors Jan and Wendy demystify the steps and help build your confidence to try it at home. Participants will explore the many benefits of canning, observe a full demonstration, get tips on recommended supplies, sample canned goods, and take home a half-pint jar of a canned product.
Hot water bath canning is an ideal entry point for first-time canners. It’s a great way to preserve your garden or farm stand favorites, enjoy seasonal produce year-round, and create thoughtful, homemade gifts. You’ll leave class with the knowledge to begin canning right away and plenty of inspiration for future projects.
Class Notes: Some samples/recipes contain milk, peanuts, and honey.
Community Instructors: Jan Szalkowski and Wendy Steusloff
Cooking for Your Health: Nourishing Power Bowls
Wednesday, August 27 ~ 3pm to 5pm
Join local family physician and certified culinary medicine specialist, Dr. Humaira Lateef, to explore ways to make delicious and healthy power bowls that are nutrient-dense and low in calories. Power bowls are the perfect customizable, good-for-you meal, and especially healthy for those with diabetes and pre-diabetes.
Culinary Medicine is where health and healing meet the art and science of food. It’s a vibrant field that recognizes the profound impact of what we eat on our overall well-being.
Class Notes: To help us honor 577’s commitment to sustainability, please bring a 5 to 7-oz. food container for your leftovers. We recommend everyone bring an apron and a hairnet or head covering.
Community Instructor: Humaira Lateef, M.D. FAAFP, CCMS
Class Locations & Parking Map
Signed up for a class and need help finding your classroom location and parking? Each class description lists its location. Click the button below to view a full map of the grounds and buildings with two lots available for easy and convenient parking.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Because space is limited, we rely on you to register for classes thoughtfully. Please help us continue to offer these wonderful classes as affordably as possible by adhering to the following registration, cancellation, and refund policies.
Photo & Video Release
Photos and videos may be taken during 577 classes and events for use on our website and other relevant media outlets and your attendance constitutes consent. View the full policy below including how you can opt-out of this release.