Pasta 101 - 2026 - Annapolis County, NS

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the PASTA 101 - Group 1 - 18 & 19 JUNE, Group 2 - 20 & 21 JUNE, Group 3 - 25 & 26 JUNE 2026 is now open. The application deadline is 27 May 2026.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
This hands-on pasta-making experience will be led by Natalia, a local artisan based in Granville Ferry, Annapolis County, Nova Scotia. The event is delivered in partnership with a local culinary provider, offering participants an immersive, small-group learning environment focused on traditional pasta-making techniques. 

Over the course of two days, participants will engage in a progressive, skills-based workshop designed for all experience levels. On Day 1, the groups will take part in a Pasta 101 Masterclass, ideal for beginners with little to no prior experience. Participants will learn foundational pasta-making techniques, including dough preparation and shaping, as well as how to create a complementary pasta sauce. The session will conclude with a group tasting, and each participant will take home the fresh pasta they prepared. 

On Day 2, Natalia will build on the group’s experience and skill progression from the first day to guide participants through more advanced techniques. Depending on the group’s ability and comfort level, participants will have the opportunity to create one or more specialty pastas, such as gnocchi, ravioli, tortelloni, infused pasta, cappellacci, garganelli, or pierogi. This event aims to foster skill development, confidence in the kitchen, and a shared culinary experience in a supportive and engaging environment.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 12.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) within 2 hours drive from Granville Ferry, Annapolis County who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
***We can not guarantee specific dates or dishes - please only apply if you are available for all the dates.
Group 1  - 1100hrs - 1400hrs = 18 June - Pasta 101 master class 19 June – Gnocchi (example dish)
Group 2 - 1100 - 1400  = 20 June - Pasta 101 master class 21 June – Pierogi (example dish)
Group 3 - 1100 - 1400 = 25 June - Pasta 101master class 26 June – Tortelloni (example dish)

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location. The following meals will be provided during the event: Tasting of the dish you created at the end of class. - not a full meal.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 3 hours of light to moderate-paced activities per day for 2 consecutive days, including standing, rolling dough, kneading, and other hands-on pasta-making tasks. 

Due to the continuous activity schedule, participants should have minimal need for rest throughout the day. Participants should have basic manual dexterity for handling kitchen tools and ingredients safely, and the ability to follow step-by-step instructions. Some light lifting (mixing bowls, flour bags, pots) may be required. 

Applicants must also be able to function in a social environment, as the workshop involves collaborating with other ill/injured members and civilians, sharing kitchen space, and participating in group tastings and discussions.