Mastering the Art of Pasta Sauces

Mastering the Art of Pasta Sauces

May 12, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

 $69 per person

Elevate your cooking expertise by mastering the fundamental methods of authentic Italian pasta sauces in this hands-on culinary workshop. Designed to go beyond simple recipes, this class focuses on the core techniques and principles that define great Italian cooking—helping you balance flavors, refine textures, and confidently pair sauces with the perfect pasta shapes.

Rooted in the tradition of cucina casalinga (Italian home cooking), you’ll discover how humble pantry ingredients are transformed into exceptional dishes through technique, timing, and thoughtful simplicity.

What You'll Do

During this immersive experience, you’ll work hands-on to create a variety of classic Italian pasta sauces while learning the “why” behind each step. This technique-driven approach will give you the confidence to move beyond recipes and cook intuitively in your own kitchen.

You’ll explore how to build flavor from the ground up, adjust consistency, and pair sauces to pasta for the most satisfying results.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a deeper understanding of Italian cooking fundamentals—and the skills to recreate and adapt these sauces at home.

You'll Learn:

• The foundational techniques behind classic Italian pasta sauces

• How to balance acidity, richness, and seasoning

• Methods for achieving ideal sauce texture and consistency

• How to pair sauces with the appropriate pasta shapes

• The principles of cucina casalinga and ingredient-driven cooking

What's Included

• All ingredients and materials needed for the class

• Hands-on instruction throughout the workshop

• Tastings of the sauces prepared during class

• Recipes and technique guidance to take home

Who This Workshop Is For

• Home cooks looking to elevate their pasta-making skills

• Food enthusiasts interested in authentic Italian techniques

• Beginners wanting to build strong culinary foundations

• Anyone who loves Italian cuisine and wants to cook with more confidence

  
  

Instructor

After a distinguished 40-year career as a dentist, Peter Glatz embarked on a new chapter at age 66, reinventing himself as a chef. Over seven years, he has gained experience in acclaimed kitchens such as Chicago's Michelin-starred Elizabeth Restaurant, Oklahoma City's Nonesuch (named "America’s Best New Restaurant" in 2018 by Bon Appétit), and Spoon and Stable in Minneapolis, led by James Beard award winner Gavin Kaysen. Most recently, he worked as a fermentation specialist in the Research and Development Lab at Sean Brock's Audrey Restaurant, which Esquire recognized as one of the "Top 10 New Restaurants" in 2022. He currently serves as a chef at Caprae Restaurant at Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery.

His culinary endeavors have been highlighted in a mini-documentary on NBC’s Today Show and in articles in Bon Appétit Magazine and the Washington Post.

Event Details

What to Bring: Just yourself—everything is provided

 Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate

 Takeaway: A deeper understanding of pasta sauce techniques and recipes to recreate at home

 Location: Prairie Fruits Farm Classroom

 4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

Parking: General parking is available in the gravel lot. ADA parking is located south of the farmhouse. The classroom is in the white building with black trim west of the gardens. Check in at the farm store at the front of the building.

Tickets: $69 per person

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery marketing, social media, and publications. Please notify the photographer if you prefer not to be photographed.