A virtual cooking class focusing on heart-healthy meals will be hosted by the Groton Public Library on September 9, 2023, from 19:00 to 20:15 (GMT). Titled “Whole Grains for Everyday,” the program aims to teach participants how to incorporate whole grains into their cooking routines. Attendees will learn to prepare dishes such as Farro Bowls and Fall Harvest Quinoa, with an emphasis on maximizing flavor using healthy ingredients.
Leading the class is Christine Van Bloem, a seasoned cooking instructor who shifted her focus to healthier cooking after experiencing a heart attack in 2020. Previously the owner of a traditional cooking school, Van Bloem now emphasizes lighter, heart-healthy meal preparation. “Instead of using a stick of butter, I’ll use a touch. Instead of a cup of cream, just a tablespoon or two,” she explained. Her approach balances health and flavor, making nutritious cooking accessible and enjoyable.
Now an empty nester, Van Bloem has adapted her cooking for two and enjoys sharing her culinary journey with others. She has also trained in culinary nutrition with The American College of Culinary Medicine, where she conducted research on the Mediterranean diet and menopause for her capstone project, which she completed in 2024.
Online cooking classes have exceeded her expectations. “It’s such an incredible way to make a connection with students around the country and even help impact their dinner table. Isn’t that great?” she remarked.
This program, supported in part by the Groton Public Library Endowment Trust and in collaboration with various area libraries, will be recorded. All registrants will receive access to the video within 48 hours after the live event.
To register for the class, interested participants can visit the Groton Public Library’s website at gpl.org. For more information about Christine Van Bloem and her culinary endeavors, visit EmptyNestKitchen.com.