Allie’s Place Afterschool recently embarked on a culinary journey, experiencing the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine through a hands-on mini mezze platter workshop. Led by NAYA, a partner of Allie’s Place Center for Culinary Education & Employment, the workshop introduced the students to a variety of traditional dishes while allowing them to build their own flavorful platters.
“We wanted to show kids that healthy food can be fun, colorful, and exciting,” said Amy Wasylyk, Vice President of Culinary at NAYA. “By building their own mezze boards, they could explore new flavors and ingredients in a hands-on way, making nutritious eating feel approachable and enjoyable.”
The kids learned about staple ingredients and dishes commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine, including hummus, figs, and a variety of fresh vegetables. For many, this was their first time tasting these foods! The interactive experience not only expanded their palates but also encouraged them to engage with food in a new way.
“Food is a gateway to culture, connection, and curiosity,” said Amy. “At NAYA, we celebrate the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, and introducing kids to new ingredients like hummus, za’atar, and sumac at a young age helps expand their palates and appreciation for different cultures.”
“I am going to tell my mom all about this—that we got to make food and eat and talk about vegetables,” one excited student in Afterschool shared.
The workshop fostered an environment of discovery, with many kids asking thoughtful questions about ingredients and how they are used in cooking.
“We hope they discovered that healthy food isn’t just good for you—it’s also delicious and fun to create,” said Amy. “We wanted them to feel empowered to try new flavors, get creative with their meals, and see food as a way to express themselves.”
We’re grateful for this collaboration with NAYA and look forward to continuing to work together through our Culinary program and beyond.
