Smoothies and Pasta and Chicken...Oh my!

Hi everyone! Yesterday night was my first experience cooking in the ARC test kitchen on campus. My sponsor Susan and all her college interns taught a class about recovery nutrition for athletes that I got to help with, and it was a great learning experience and a lot of fun at the same time (D). I arrived at 6 PM to help Susan prep all the food that we would need. There were 2 classes: one at 7pm and one at 8:15pm (D). My jobs were opening up cans (which was quite frustrating because the can openers were old and not working very well), measuring out ingredients for the recipes we were using, and separating the ingredients into different trays so that all the ingredients for each recipe were together (F/D). I felt a little overwhelmed and confused at first because I didn't know where any of the cooking utensils were located in the kitchen, but by the end of the night, I knew my way around better (F). Both classes were taught in a similar manner: Susan gave a brief lesson to the athletes about recovery nutrition after exercise, went through the recipes they were going to be cooking, and then the athletes got to try their hands at preparing the recipes (D). Brittany (intern) and I were in charge of smoothies the first class, and in the second class I got to help with two skillet pasta dishes (D). I enjoyed being able to converse with all the athletes, and loved trying the new recipes as well (F)! I learned the importance of trying new things, because all of the food we cooked was so yummy, and I usually shy away from trying new foods because I'm afraid they won't be good (A). By cooking these meals, I realized how simple it truly can be to make quick, healthy foods, and I am now a lot less intimidated when it comes to trying new recipes (F). One thing that was really helpful was all the interns and I cleaned dishes throughout the night, rather than waiting till both classes were over to clean everything (D). I understand the importance of cleaning as you go, because it significantly cut down on cleaning time at the end of the night (A)! This class was awesome because it helped me practice my communication skills and learn new cooking techniques and nutrition tips. I also feel like I am starting to fit in with the other interns, since I'm getting to know them better (F/A). I can't wait to make these recipes for my family at home!