Cooking Class Promotes Healthy Meals Parents Can Cook on the Cheap

"I didn't even want to come to the class because I was tired," the mom of two said, standing in line at Asbell Elementary's cafeteria.

They Fayetteville Scool District's Healthy Cooking Class is made with moms like Jennifer Spillers in mind.

They are moms with busy schedules.

"Very chaotic," she laughed, describing her day.

And many working parents don't think they have time to create a culinary masterpiece.

"It's easy to just feed them fast food, because there's a McDonald's on every corner," Spillers said.

But they also want to serve up healthier selections at home.

"We're all very busy -- and these were good ideas our children will actually eat," she said of the information handed out at the healthy cooking course.

Those teaching the class will be the first to tell you stepping into the kitchen can be intimidating.

"They need the knowledge, and parents are not going to do it unless they feel comfortable," said Child Nutrition Director for Fayetteville Public Schools and chef Adam Simmons.

But in 40 minutes, Simmons created a meal full of protein, vegetables, and even dessert that was super simple and tasty too.

"It's definitely something I could feed my kids, and that they would eat," Spillers said.

These cooks arm you with the advice and the know-how.

"He gave us good ideas about preparation the night before so that would be achievable," Spillers said.

"I'm showing them to cook with fresh produce and frozen produce," Simmons said. "I want to make it as easy for them as possible."

All of this, to make a meal that won't break the bank but keeps kids from trending toward obesity.

"I just want to show quick, easy, nutritious meals you can fix at home for pretty cheap," Simmons said.

And that has parents like Spillers, and their kids, coming back for seconds.

"I plan on going to other ones they're having in the community too," Spillers said. "They'll cook different things and give us other good ideas."

Because after all, who can resist finger-licking good food?

And if you missed the class at Asbell on Monday, have no fear. Six more are scheduled.

March 14th - Owl Creek Elementary

March 29th - Leverett Elementary

April 4th - Root Elementary

April 19th - Asbell Elementary

May 17 - Root Elementary

TBA - Leverett Elementary

All classes are from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. and you do not have to have a child who attends the Fayetteville Public Schools, or the school at which the class is held, to attend. Members of the community are welcome as well.

Apple Seeds, Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Northwest Arkansas is co-sponsoring these events, for more information about the organization, click here.