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Our Instructors

Kids & Teens Classes

Essence of Cooking

2025 Winter Schedule PDF

March 2025 Classes

*NEW* Cooking Fundamentals

*NEW* Spring Schedule PDF

*NEW* April 2025 Classes

*NEW* May 2025 Classes

Monthly

March 2025

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SPECTACULAR SALADS
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Salads are spectacular when they are made with lots of extras. Do not miss the chance to discover how magical these recipes will be for you! Come to learn Ultimate Asian Bang Bang Shrimp with Snow Peas; The Famous Cowboy Stetson Chopped Salad with Grilled Corn, Pepitas & Cous Cous; Steakhouse Chopped Salad with Bac , ...
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ESSENCE OF COOKING – WK 10 – MAR 11
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Desserts & Pastries This week is all about indulgence! We’ll dive into the world of desserts and pastries, exploring techniques for creating sweets like cookies, tarts, custards, and pies. You’ll learn the basics of baking science, including how to work with doughs, batters, and fillings. From flaky pastries to cre , ...
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SOUTHWEST THE BEAUTIFUL
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
One of the beauties of Southwest cuisine is that it combines the new with the old. Robust flavors, vibrant colors and earthy aromas blended with Asian, South American, and Mexican foods and techniques. Come experience the creation of centuries old and contemporary flavors in this dynamic lesson. We will learn Cóctel de , ...
PARISIAN BISTRO
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
A French Bistro is loved and revered for its’ warmth, casual dining atmosphere and passion for serving excellent food prepared simply. With that combination, it is no wonder they are found dotting the landscape of the city, making diners happy by feeding them foods uniquely satisfying. Come for an enchanting Bistro exp , ...
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LUNCH AND LEARN – MARCH 14
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
$50.00
Have you ever wanted to learn the best way to prepare roasted Salmon? This lesson will give you the how to with all the preparation steps and methods. Join us for a DEMONSTRATION of an amazing meal and learn it for your own pleasure! Our lesson is Oven-Roasted Salmon with Orange-Mint Relish, served with Roasted Asparag , ...
GOURMET COUPLES – MARCH 14
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
You and your partner deserve to have a great date night! Why not make it this evening? You will be part of a group of couples preparing a three-course gourmet meal which will be enjoyed with a sampling of wines! Come have fun with your partner and be part of preparing Fried Plantain Amuse with Sour Orange, Cumin, & , ...
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ASIAN APPETIZERS
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
If you love Asian flavors, here is the ultimate way to dive into a variety of foods and enjoy them all as finger foods! A perfect theme for a party with nibbling foods everyone will love! Come have fun, explore this cuisine, and learn to make these amazing finger foods! Out lesson is Japanese-Style Chicken Meatballs; H , ...
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PIES AND TARTS FOR KIDS
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
We are so excited! It is Spring Break week and here is a chance for kids ages 8 and above to come learn to make breakfast. Our menu of sweet and savory recipes is perfect to share later with your family and their friends. Sign up your young cook to learn Maple Bacon Pancake Muffins; Mini Blueberry Pancakes; Puffy Lemon , ...
ESSENCE OF COOKING – WK 11 – MAR 18
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Hors d’oeuvres Perfect for anyone who loves to entertain, this week focuses on creating small, flavorful bites that are perfect for parties and gatherings. We’ll explore a range of hors d’oeuvres, from finger foods to bite-sized appetizers, discussing presentation, flavor balance, and how to serve guests with flair. By , ...
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SPRING FLING FOR KIDS
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Spring Break is the perfect time to learn about party foods! This fun menu gives kids ages eight and above the opportunity to learn to make finger foods to make for friends! Sign up for a very fun class & your child will learn to make Mac and Cheese Muffins with Bread Crumbs; Parmesan Crusted Grilled Cheese on Sour , ...
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PLANT BASED GOODNESS
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Many are eating little, or no meat and this class offers a menu that makes it fun to be creative with vegetables, using meat as an addition to a meal not the focus of it. Get inspired and learn these great recipes! Our lesson is Broccoli Salad with Avocado Dressing; Cauliflower Shawarma with Spicy Tahini (Roasted Cauli , ...
KNIFE SKILLS
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Some of the most important tools in a kitchen are the knives you own. This class offers a unique hands-on experience teaching how to easily use a chef’s knife and pairing knife. Each participant will receive an array of Vegetables and Fruits which the instructor will use to lead through learning to slice, dice, and jul , ...
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LUNCH AND LEARN – MARCH 21
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
$50.00
Need some new ideas for dinner? This menu is delicious, easy and you can learn to make it by watching! At our DEMONSTRATION you can relax and be served lunch. Come for a fun experience to enjoy Sauteed Pork Medallions with Leeks in Mustard-Chive Sauce, served with Roasted Red Potatoes and Baby Spinach. Dessert will be , ...
GOURMET COUPLES – MARCH 21
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
It is Date Night! Invite your partner to join you for an evening of cooking with a group of couples. You will take part in creating a three-course gourmet dinner. Our lesson will be enjoyed with a sampling of wines. Come for Salt & Pepper Grilled Shrimp with Serrano Ham Amuse and Crab Bisque with Fennel, Fresh Toma , ...
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PASTA SHAPES
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
$105.00
Learn to make Pasta from scratch then turn it into a variety of our favorite shapes. Each team of cooks will then create a made from scratch Sauce perfect for your Pasta! Come have fun and learn an amazing variety! Our lesson is Farfalle with Tomatoes, Olives, & Feta; Farfalle Salad with Broccoli & Olives; Penn , ...
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JADE PALACE TREASURES
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Treat yourself to an enchanting culinary class and an opportunity to learn to prepare specialties from our much-loved neighbor & Restaurant Jade Palace. Enjoy a lesson with Hugh Mei the owner and manager who will generously share his knowledge, techniques and recipes with us. His Hands-on lesson teaches Vegetable S , ...
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LOW CARB COOKING
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Low carb diets have been used for decades to stimulate weight loss and lower added sugars and help reduce the risk of disease. This class introduces foods that are low in carbs, & rich in foods the body can assimilate more easily. Our lesson is Low Carb Crispy Sesame Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry; Ham and Gouda C , ...
ESSENCE OF COOKING – WK 12 – MAR 25
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Graduation Dinner In this celebratory final week, you’ll put your newfound skills to the test by creating a multi-course meal together with the group. This graduation dinner will feature dishes from previous weeks, allowing you to showcase everything you’ve learned in a fun, festive setting. It’s a chance to bring toge , ...
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PUFF PASTRY AND PHYLLO
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Using these two specialty Pastries adds dimension and flair to any meal. Each requires an understanding of the techniques of using them to achieve the best results. Come for a fun and enchanting lesson to add these recipes to your repertoire. Our lesson is Phyllo Wrapped Honey Mustard Salmon; Brie and Shiitake Mushroom , ...
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MEDITERRANEAN APPETIZERS
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
This is a perfect theme for a gathering especially in spring because of the light, healthy foods used. Come treat yourself to a lesson that will give you recipes you will use and treasure. Our menu is Kale Tabbouleh; Yogurt & Olive Oil Flatbreads; Ultimate Hummus; Pomegranate & Orange Chicken Kebabs; Grilled Sh , ...
BEST OF WORLD FOOD TOUR
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
$105.00
We are spanning the globe on a culinary search for the best and most favorite dishes enjoyed around the world! From Paris to Japan and China to India, in this class you will gain an understanding of locally produced foods, flavorings and methods of preparation. Have fun and expand your culinary knowledge with this menu , ...
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LUNCH AND LEARN – MARCH 28
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
$50.00
Take yourself out for lunch! This could be a perfect experience to share with a friend! Our DEMONSTRATION of Mediterranean Shrimp & Pasta Salad (Cold Pasta Salad with poached Shrimp, short-twisted Pasta, Arugula, sliced Zucchini, Yellow Bell Pepper strips, sliced Red Onion, Feta Cheese, Parsley, Basil, and Oregano , ...
GOURMET COUPLES – MARCH 28
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Here is a class you and your partner can enjoy together! Come as a team and be part of creating this delicious three course meal. Each couple will choose their dish to make. We will enjoy it all with a sampling of wine! Come for a very fun evening to prepare Oven Roasted Crab Cake Amuse with Lemon-Caper Aioli, and Gril , ...
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STREET FOODS OF THE WORLD
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
From each country featured we will learn what foods the locals love the most and find from the street vendors. Come to enjoy Msemen (Moroccan Flatbreads) with Honey-Thyme Butter; Cuban Pressed Sandwich; Jamaican Beef Tacos with Mango Pineapple Slaw; Lamb, Harissa, & Almond Sausage Rolls; Chicken Karahi (Pakistani b , ...
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PASTA PARTY INTERNATIONAL
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
We are going to make the most amazing variety of Pastas and have a party while doing it! If you have ever wanted to make Pasta from scratch, here is the opportunity! Come for an International menu of Greek Shrimp & Orzo; Homemade Fettuccine with Bolognese Sauce; German Spaetzle in a Buttery Cheese Sauce; Argentinea , ...
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AROUND THE WORLD IN A SKILLET
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Borrowing an idea from a well-known cookbook author, we are taking a tour around the world with dishes that can all be created by using one pan everyone has – the skillet. In these recipes you’ll find excellent choices for dinners, side dishes and desserts. Soon to be family favorites! Our lesson is Skillet Korean Chic , ...
COOKING FUNDAMENTALS
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
$630.00
This 6-week fundamentals course is for those who want to gain an in depth understanding of cooking principals to become better home cooks. Lessons provide an understanding of the subject with discussion of culinary terms, techniques and tools, ingredient selection, menu planning and presentation. The instructor begins , ...
KNIFE SKILLS FUNDAMENTALS
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
$105.00
Week 1 of Cooking Fundamentals: This class offers a unique hands-on experience teaching how to easily use a chef’s knife and paring knife. Each participant will receive an array of Vegetables and Fruits to use for practice cutting. The instructor will lead the group through a DEMONSTRATION on how to slice, dice, and ju , ...
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CAST IRON GOODNESS
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Cast Iron pans make great vessels for cooking for many reasons. They heat and cook evenly, allow a crust to form on your food, can be used on any cooking surface, become non-stick when a patina develops and are inexpensive, quality cookware pieces. Come learn a great variety of dishes that cook best when using cast iro , ...
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PLANT BASED PLEASURES
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Many people have discovered the joy of adding plant-based dishes to their meals. As a healthy way of cooking, it unleashes a multitude of creative ways to create exciting dishes using Vegetables. Come for a fun morning of cooking and be inspired to prepare Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dressing; Italian Fl , ...
CHEERS TO SPRING
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
$105.00
With spring nearly here, we move to foods that are fresh and light. Come for a great lesson to discover how to make these flavorful recipes for yourself. Our menu is Prosciutto wrapped Shrimp with Chive Butter Appetizer; Shaved Zucchini & Yellow Squash Salad with Toasted Pine Nuts & Lemon-Olive Oil Vinaigrette; , ...
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LUNCH AND LEARN – APRIL 4
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
$50.00
Treat yourself to lunch served to you as you watch a DEMONSTRATION lesson. You could invite a friend to share the experience! Come indulge and enjoy this loaded Surf-and-Turf-inspired Cobb Salad with smoky grilled Shrimp, Corn, and Steak atop Romaine, Eggs, Avocado, and Cheddar Cheese. It will be served with Homemade C , ...
GOURMET COUPLES – APRIL 4
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
This class for couples introduces a three-course meal prepared by a team of partners. Each course is served with a wine to complement the menu. Invite your partner to come with you to learn these amazing dishes. Our lesson is Chili Dusted Shrimp with fresh Corn, Avocado, & Ginger Salsa Amuse, and Shaved Zucchini &a , ...
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A BEAUTIFUL BREAD BASKET
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
$105.00
Baking bread is part technique, part science, and largely a labor of love when you have great recipes and an understanding of using yeast.  Come discover all of these things as our lesson weaves us through these lovely breads. Come to learn Multigrain Bread; Whole Wheat Biscuits; Cheese Bread with Bacon, Onion, and Gru , ...
SECRETS OF THE ITALIAN MAMAS
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Great Italian dishes often are made with special knowledge of Italian Mamas. Their secrets are not written down but are shared. Their knowledge provides the basis of creating many Italian flavors we love so much! Come learn from the secrets (with the help of the instructor’s real Italian Mama) of Italian Mamas. Our les , ...

SWEET BASIL COOKING INSTRUCTORS – SCOTTSDALE

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Sweet Basil Cooking School’s specialty is hands-on classes. Any good teaching requires a number of skills but teaching hands-on classes requires the most. Experience and knowledge are crucial, of course.

To quote a teaching chef we knew many years ago: “You need eyes in the back – and on the sides – of your head.” And those eyes have to react quickly to a number of different hands doing a number of different tasks.

We’re proud that our chef instructors are so good at what they do – and that each one enjoys sharing their skills with those who attend our classes. Each one is an integral part of what makes Sweet Basil Cooking School a success.

Chef Lisa Brisch left a rewarding career in Information Technology management when she realized that the passion she’s developed for cooking after college kept growing. Following her dream she became a graduate of the Art Institute of Phoenix’s Culinary Program and then a Certified Personal Chef. Chef Brisch launched her Dinner Thyme Personal Chef Service in 2000 and has since won a loyal clientele in Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania and now Phoenix. Her forte is cooking with a focus on high quality ingredients, good fats (olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, etc), whole grains, fresh proteins, and seasonal vegetables.” As does any good business owner, however, Chef Brisch knows that her success as a personal chef is based on “cooking for people based on how they like to eat, not how you like to cook.”

Hometown: Santa Monica, CA

Linda owns Linda’s Dinner Designs catering.
The best advice anyone ever gave her about cooking: “Taste everything!”
What is your favorite cooking tip: “Rub your hands on stainless steel to remove food odors.”
Linda’s favorite meal: Rack of Lamb.
Linda’s favorite web site: www.saveur.com

Linda’s most memorable cooking experience: “While catering a party I was using a large amount of brandy for a flambé that created a pan fire that reached the ceiling. I kept shaking the pan until the alcohol cooked out.”

Amy Barnes has been a Chef in Scottsdale for over 30 years. She opened the Hyatt Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch in 1986 and worked her way up from prep cook to a Chef at the award-winning Golden Swan, studying under Anton Brunbauer.

During that time she attended and graduated from the Culinary Arts program at Scottsdale Community College.

Amy competed in the AZ Culinary Arts VICA Chef Championship where she took the Gold, then won the State and National competitions. She has made appearances on local television, magazines, and newspapers and competed in Food TV brief appearance on Guys Grocery Games. She has worked at a number of very popular restaurants including: Paniolo, RoxSand , Hyatt Regency in Austin Texas, with her favorite being The Impeccable Pig in Old Town Scottsdale.

Amy has taught recreational cooking classes at Sweet Basil Gourmetware and Cooking School for over 20 years. Owner Martie Sullivan gives Amy full freedom for Chef Creativity in the development of her classes. When Amy is not teaching, she is cooking or reading about cooking. Amy loves meeting new people and makes every cooking class a party.

We are thrilled to announce that Jan D’Atri has joined Sweet Basil’s teaching staff! We have always been excited to have Jan (and occasionally her delightful “Momma”!) teach a class when they had the time.

Jan has been so busy for many years as a restaurant owner, cookbook author and on television, radio, in newspapers, and literally countless civic tasks.

And now a Sweet Basil Chef Instructor.