Teaching Kitchen
The Teaching Kitchen at The Sampson Family YMCA was established between 2012
Our programming is safe, accessible, exciting and educational for individuals at every stage of life and prioritizes overall health and wellness, disease prevention and management, and delicious and nutritious meal creation on limited budgets.
Charcuterie Centerpieces for the Holiday Table
Join us in the Teaching Kitchen as we put together celebratory charcuterie boards guaranteed to astound your family and guests this holiday season.
We will explore two styles of charcuterie board: Savory and Sweet.
Our Savory boards will feature traditional elements such as cold cuts, cheeses (regular and vegan), fresh and pickled vegetables, nuts and dried fruit, while our Sweet boards will be an exploration of crackers, crisps and cookies, select jams, soft cheeses, fresh and dried fruit and chocolates. You will learn how to make quick-pickled veggies, whipped butter, and a cheese ball to complement the store-bought items as well as how to plate, style and garnish your finished boards.
Participants will receive one of each platter to take home. Complimentary mocktails will be served, bring a friend and enjoy some early holiday cheer!
Kidzone Childcare is available for each session!
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9/20/26 | 12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | $ 35.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
12/03/26
Charcuterie Boards Two Ways (Savory & Dessert Sweet) - Th - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration Closed Opens on 09/20/26 |
|
|
12/07/26
Charcuterie Boards Two Ways (Savory & Dessert Sweet) - Mo - 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
|
Registration Closed Opens on 09/20/26 |
Cooking & Canning: Preserving the Harvest
Join us in the kitchen as we explore tasty ways to preserve the summer harvest. Canning will be led by our very own Laura Hamilton, who will show us how to safely use a water bath to can and seal our delicious creations.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email Chef Oliver – [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/30/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Special Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/25/26
SALSA! Pico De Gallo and Peach Salsa - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
$15 - $25 | Register |
Cooking Duos! Family Friendly Cooking Class!
Are you a parent and child that want to take a class together? Or perhaps two friends, a couple or other cooking Duo? This class is for you! Come cook with us in the Teaching Kitchen as we celebrate the beginning of Spring with delicious opportunities to cook together (with a special welcome to young chefs.) This class is recommended for cooks of all ages who can handle tasks like whisking, stirring, cutting with child friendly knives and following instructions around a hot stove with relative ease, so please be mindful when registering.
Individuals, Friends, Couples, Parents and kids are encouraged to register
Each Registration covers the cost of two attendees.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email Chef Oliver – [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3/4/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | $ 35.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Special Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/13/26
Charred Shrimp with Shimi Sauce and Chickpea Rice - Th - 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
|
$25 - $35 | Register | |
|
08/20/26
Key Lime Bars - Th - 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
|
$25 - $35 | Register | |
|
08/27/26
Chicken and Waffles with Peach Salsa - Th - 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
|
$25 - $35 |
Registration will open on 08/24/2026 @ 08:00 am |
Easy One Pot Meals
Half the joy of a meal is sharing it with others; the other half is sharing the work of cooking together! Come meal prep with us in the Teaching Kitchen and explore delicious ways to easily create simple dishes that you can either set and forget or whip up in one pot. We will explore cooking a variety of ingredients and practice some easy prep to help when you just don’t feel like cooking but want to eat something tasty and nutritious.
Every week, we’ll make or prep a dish you can easily finish or warm at home in the oven, crock pot or Instant Pot, or freeze to finish another day from frozen. You always take home at least two servings just in time for dinner!
If you have any questions or want to make special dish requests, email Chef Oliver at [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Members & Non-members | 8/2/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Special Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
09/09/26
Lemon Chicken Piccata - We - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
09/16/26
DIY Salad Kits - A Week's Worth of Lunches - We - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
$20 - $30 | Register | |
|
09/23/26
Moroccan Chickpea and Rice Casserole (Tagine) - We - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/07/26
Pork Tenderloin in Creamy Dijon Sauce - We - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/14/26
Chicken and Vegetable Casserole - We - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/21/26
Risotto Milanese with Garlicky Shrimp - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/28/26
Chicken Paprikash - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
11/04/26
Lentil Stew with Coconut Rice - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
11/11/26
Pork Stew with Root Vegetables - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
11/18/26
Sausage and Fennel Dressing aka Stuffing - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
11/25/26 - 12/01/26
Feta & Cranberry Phyllo Pockets (Perfect for Thanksgiving Dinner) - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
12/02/26
Creamy Mushroom and Chicken Casserole - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register | ||
|
12/09/26
Lasagna - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
|
Register |
Food as Medicine - “All About Gut Health”
Join us as we discuss how to heal, care for and support your gut. From day-to-day care and management of illnesses to keeping things regular and easy!
Certified “foodie” and naturopathic doctor, Eric Biseca, (Ph.D) has not only studied nutrition for decades, but has collaborated with hundreds of patients in discovering what foods, diets and or nutritional adjustments best suit their needs. Dr. Biseca has served as in-house practitioner at wellness centers overseas and currently assists those with chronic conditions while facilitating a meditation circle in Murrysville (“The Sacred Circle”). He brings culture, flavor and unique perspective to the world of wellness through both simple and exotic foods as well as innovative nutrition.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email Chef Oliver – [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/30/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
09/14/26
Session 1 - Mo - 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/16/26
Session 1 - We - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/21/26
Session 2 - Mo - 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/23/26
Session 2 - We - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/05/26
Session 3 - Mo - 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/07/26
Session 3 - We - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
|
Register |
International Flavors: Foods from Around the World

Join us this Fall for an exploration of cuisines from around the world. Each week we will craft dishes in the kitchen from a sample of other countries, cultures, and culinary traditions, starting in Italy and ending in France. If the cost of airfare is keeping you stateside this year, don’t fret, join us in the kitchen as we taste the world. Each class, you will make and take home a meal of 2 or more servings.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I - Members | 8/3/26 @ 08:00 AM |
8/9/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | - |
| Fall I - Members & Non-Members | 8/10/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
| Fall II - Members | 9/21/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/27/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | - |
| Fall II - Members & Non-Members | 9/28/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/6/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
09/08/26
Sundried Tomato and Olive Focaccia with Caprese Salad - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/15/26
Sushi Rolls and Onigiri (Rice Balls) - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/22/26
Earl Grey Souffle - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/06/26
Thai Shrimp and Vegetable Curry - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/13/26 - 10/19/26
Trinidadian Stewed Chicken and Potatoes - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/20/26
Golden and Red Beet Borscht - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/27/26
Beef Empanadas - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
11/03/26
Bison and Three Sisters (Corn, Squash and Beans) Stew - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
11/10/26
Potato Samosas - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
11/17/26
Zwiebelkuchen (German Bacon & Onion Pie) - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
11/24/26
Wild Rice, Sausage and Chestnut Casserole - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
12/01/26
Malva Pudding - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
12/08/26
Meat and Vegetable Pasteles (Caribbean Tamales) - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
12/15/26
Yule Logs with Chocolate Bark - Tu - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
Italian 101: Gnocchi, Tiramisu, Meatballs & More!

Join us this Fall as we continue our exploration of the flavors of Italy crafting more authentic Italian dishes this time Gnocchi, Tiramisu, Meatballs and More. Led again by member Elisa More, former restaurateur and chef, she will teach us from her wealth of culinary tradition and knowledge.
By the end of each class, you will have gained a wealth of tips and tricks to try at home, as well as have prepared two servings or more to take home.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I - Members | 8/10/26 @ 08:00 AM |
8/16/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | - |
| Fall I - Members & Non-Members | 8/17/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | $ 35.00 |
| Fall II - Members | 9/21/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/27/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | - |
| Fall II - Members & Non-Members | 9/28/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/29/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | $ 35.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
09/14/26
MmmMeatballs! - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
09/21/26
Gnocchi! - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
10/12/26
Wedding Soup - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Register | |
|
11/02/26
Cannolis - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
11/16/26
Tiramisu - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
12/07/26
Holiday Biscotti - Mo - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
Lunch & Learn with Trained Nutrition & Dietetics Educators

Join us in the kitchen with Nutrition and Dietetic Educators for snacks, occasional hands-on making, or visual food demonstrations, and discussion on the nutrition behind eating for the management of health conditions. We will also discuss core food groups to learn more about why your trainer or doctor is always telling you to add more protein or fiber to your diet.
For information or questions about dietary restrictions message Chef Oliver at [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I - Members | 8/10/26 @ 08:00 AM |
8/16/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 10.00 | - |
| Fall I - Members & Non-Members | 8/17/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 10.00 | $ 15.00 |
Master Chef Kids: Creative Cooking for Your Kid Chef

Is your culinary creative kid the next Junior Master Chef? This class is for them! Kid Chefs! Join us in the Teaching Kitchen as we learn the FUN-damentals of cooking through a variety of recipes including quick breads, seasonal snacks, meals and surprising flavors from around the world.
For information or questions about dietary restrictions message Chef Oliver at [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I - Members | 8/10/26 @ 08:00 AM |
8/16/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | - |
| Fall I - Members & Non-Members | 8/17/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
| Fall II - Members | 9/21/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/27/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | - |
| Fall II - Members & Non-Members | 9/28/26 @ 08:00 AM |
12/6/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 15.00 | $ 25.00 |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Special Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
09/10/26 - 10/22/26
Entire 6-Week Session Fall 1 - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
$90 - $150 | Register | |
|
09/10/26 - 10/30/26
Summer Garden Pizzas - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
09/17/26
Korean Style Sushi (Kimbap) - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
09/24/26
Mini Angel Food Cakes with Lemon Glaze and Berries - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/08/26
Vegetable & Noodles Lo Mein - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/15/26
Creamy Chicken Alfredo - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/22/26
The Omelette from Ratatouille - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Register | ||
|
10/29/26 - 12/11/26
Entire 6-Week Session Fall 2 - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
$90 - $150 |
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
|
|
10/29/26 - 12/31/26
Spooky Cookies! 👻 - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
||
|
11/05/26
Ragu with Buttered Noodles - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
||
|
11/12/26
Potato Samosas - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
||
|
11/19/26
Apple or Pear Cranberry Pastry Pies - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
||
|
12/03/26
Holiday Pinwheel Cookies - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
||
|
12/10/26
Lasagna! - Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
|
Registration will open on 09/21/2026 @ 08:00 am |
Slovak Cooking: Pierogis and Cold Dough Pastry (Kolache)

- The Perfect Dough: Learn the secrets to mixing and kneading tender doughs that are easy to roll and seal.
- Filling Mastery: Prepare traditional fillings for Pierogi like creamy potato, savory sauerkraut and even a sweet fruit option. And for Kolache: fruit and cheese.
- Shaping & Sealing: Practice rolling out the dough and master techniques to create beautiful, leak-proof seals.
- Cooking Techniques: Discover how to perfectly boil your pierogi and when to give them a final pan-fry in butter for that classic golden-brown finish. Also how to shape and bake your Kolache for tender crumb perfection.
Take home a dozen of your own handmade pierogi after our pierogi class and a dozen pieces of Kolache after our pastry class in different flavors, detailed recipes, and of course we’ll have Pierogis and Pastries for tasting.
If you have any questions or dietary needs email Chef Oliver at [email protected]
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I - Members Only | 8/10/26 @ 08:00 AM |
8/16/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | - |
| Fall I - Members & Non-Members | 8/17/26 @ 08:00 AM |
9/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 25.00 | $ 35.00 |