LEWISTON — “Healthy Eating = Quality of Life” is the topic of a four-part series being presented in July by Central Maine Medical Center’s executive chef Oleg Opalnyk.

The classes will be offered free of charge on July 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the Atrium kitchen on the third-floor of the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute, 60 High St.

Those interested in attending the classes are urged to register by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmmc.org.

The hour-long cooking classes will highlight the basics for making meals that are both tasty and nutritious, focusing on vegetarian fare that is filling and satisfying.

The series will begin with a discussion of how the essentials of good health can be well served by a vegetarian diet.

“High quality ingredients and simple preparation can produce exceptional meals,” said Opalnyk. “And if you want to eat less meat in an effort to make alternative nutritional, environmental or ethical dietary choices, a vegetarian approach can be very useful.”

“Whatever your reasons for introducing a more vegetarian element to your diet, it’s got to taste good,” Opalnyk says. The series of classes will show participants how to turn a meat-filled recipe into a vegetarian delight with simple substitutions — including tofu, beans, nuts, and grains – that can make “crowd pleasing” vegetarian dishes.

Vegetarian cuisine, he says, can help people reduce their cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure and better manage their weight.

Opalnyk, who recently joined the CMMC Food Service management staff, has introduced a number of well-received changes to the hospital’s menu. His specialties include vegan and vegetarian dishes fused with world cuisine influences.

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