TAMA – As summer winds down and families gear up for the start of a new school year, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Tama County is offering a practical solution for busy weeknights. Community members are invited to participate in a hands-on Freezer Meal Workshop on Monday, August 11, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Living Faith Church in Tama.

This workshop offers a practical way to have homemade meals ready as families transition back to school schedules and busy fall activities. With sports practices, meetings, school events, and other commitments quickly filling family calendars, having meals prepared in advance can help reduce stress and save valuable time.

Participants in this workshop will prepare a homemade marinara sauce and use it as the base for four freezer-friendly meals that can be enjoyed throughout the busy weeks ahead. The registration fee is $125 per person and includes all ingredients, supplies, and materials needed to prepare the meals. Each meal makes approximately eight servings, allowing participants to take home four freezer-ready meals totaling about 32 servings.

Recipes include:

-Lasagna

-Four Cheese Ziti

-Zesty Chili

-Classic Pizza

Participants will work together to assemble meals, learn food preparation and freezer meal techniques, and leave with meals ready for their freezer.

Space is limited. Registration and payment must be received by August 7 to reserve a spot.

For more information or to register, contact ISU Extension and Outreach Tama County AT 641-484-2703.