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A Dash of Holiday Flavor: Healthy Teaching Kitchen Holiday Cooking Class

VA Providence Dietitian Lily Curreri tells Veterans about all of the healthy eating options they have during the holidays.
VA Providence Dietitian Lily Curreri tells Veterans about all of the healthy eating options they have during the holidays while Dietitian Lynn Leclair prepares turkey/oat meatballs.

By Justyn Charon, Public Affairs Specialist

VA Providence Veterans stirred up some holiday cheer on December 2 as the Healthy Teaching Kitchen (HTK) team hosted a festive Holiday Cooking Class designed to help Veterans enjoy the season with balanced, nutritious meals.

The class welcomed VA-enrolled Veterans into an immersive demonstration focused on simple, healthy holiday recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor.

Participants learned practical techniques for navigating holiday gatherings, balancing indulgent choices, and planning meals that support long-term health goals. The HTK instructor, VA Providence Dietitian Lily Curreri, guided Veterans through hands-on demonstrations—mixing, chopping, sautéing, and tasting as they built confidence in preparing healthy versions of seasonal favorites.

The session also highlighted the importance of mindful eating, portion control, and small changes that make a big impact during a season known for heavy meals. Veterans asked questions, swapped tips, and left with practical recipes they could recreate at home.

Space filled quickly, and feedback from attendees underscored the value of having accessible, evidence-based nutrition support right here at VA Providence.