At Italy Culinary Vacations, we believe that cooking is more than just a skill—it’s a way to connect with the heart and soul of Italy. Join Chef Stefano for a hands-on culinary journey where you’ll master the techniques of traditional Italian cuisine and immerse yourself in the art of cooking authentic dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a passionate foodie, our Italian cooking classes offer the perfect blend of learning, culture, and delicious food.
What You’ll Learn in Our Cooking Classes
Handmade Traditional Pastas (No Machines)
One of the most beloved aspects of Italian cuisine is its pasta, and in our cooking classes you’ll learn how to make it the traditional way—by hand! Forget the machines—Chef Stefano will guide you through the timeless techniques of crafting Tagliatelle, Ravioli, Tortelloni, Lasagne, and Cappelletti, just like the locals do. You’ll master the delicate art of kneading, rolling, and cutting dough to perfection.
The result? Fresh, flavorful pasta that’s sure to impress at home.
Pasta Sauces: A Perfect Pairing
The key to any great pasta dish lies in its sauce. You’ll learn how to create rich, flavorful sauces that perfectly complement your handmade pasta. From the simplicity of a Marinara to the complexity of a Bolognese, you’ll discover the subtle art of balancing ingredients, from fresh tomatoes to hearty meats, to bring out the very best in each dish. Our cooking classes go beyond the basics to ensure you can create sauces that elevate your pasta to new heights.
Bolognese & Tuscan Cuisine
Tuscany and Bologna are two culinary regions that offer a wealth of flavors, and in our cooking classes, you’ll explore their traditional dishes. Learn the secrets of a slow-cooked Bolognese sauce, rich with layers of flavor, or dive into classic Tuscan cuisine that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients. These iconic dishes, prepared with love and patience, are staples in Italian homes and will become your favorites too.
Main Courses: Meat & Seafood
From tender poultry to savory lamb, juicy pork to succulent beef, Chef Stefano will teach you how to prepare mouthwatering main courses that feature Italy’s best-loved proteins. Whether it’s a hearty roast or a delicate fillet, you’ll learn how to prepare and cook these dishes to perfection.
We also explore the world of seafood, using the freshest catches to create Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are light, flavorful, and satisfying.
Fresh Vegetables: From Farm to Table
Italy’s cuisine celebrates the seasons, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the vibrant vegetables that grace every meal. In our cooking classes, you’ll learn how to work with seasonal vegetables to make dishes that showcase the best of the land. Whether it’s an Eggplant Parmigiana, an Acquacotta or a Tuscan Ribollita, you’ll learn how to bring out the natural flavors of the freshest ingredients.
Seasonal Wild Mushrooms & Truffles
If you’re visiting in the right season, you’re in for a true treat. Chef Stefano will teach you how to incorporate wild mushrooms and truffles—two of Italy’s most prized ingredients—into your cooking classes. Learn the techniques to prepare dishes that highlight these earthy, aromatic delights, from fresh truffle pasta to a mushroom risotto that will have you dreaming of Italy long after your vacation.
Cooking with Artisan Cheeses
Italy is famous for its cheeses, and during your time with us, you’ll get hands-on experience working with some of the finest. Learn to prepare dishes using Pecorino di Fossa, Pecorino Toscano, Fresh Ricotta and Parmigiano Reggiano—cheeses that are as varied as the regions they come from. From adding them to pasta sauces to grating them over fresh salads or roasted vegetables, in our cooking classes you’ll discover how to let these cheeses shine in every dish.
Butchery Techniques: A Skill for Life
One of the most valuable skills you can take home from Italy Culinary Vacations’ cooking classes is the art of butchery. Under Chef Stefano’s expert guidance, you’ll learn how to debone, fillet, and roll meats and fish. You’ll work with local cuts and learn the techniques to break them down, prepare them, and cook them to perfection. Whether it’s making an authentic Porchetta or preparing fish fillets for Acquapazza, this hands-on experience is an essential part of Italian cuisine.
Meat Curing: Homemade Charcuterie
Delve into the world of homemade meat curing with Chef Stefano. Learn how to create your own guanciale, pancetta, sausages, and salame using traditional methods. These Italian charcuterie staples are not only delicious but a testament to Italy’s rich food culture and love for preserving the natural flavors of meat.
You’ll gain an appreciation for the delicate process of curing meats, and perhaps even bring home your own creations!
Experience Authentic Cooking Classes with Italy Culinary Vacations
At Italy Culinary Vacations, we offer truly immersive cooking classes that go beyond recipes. Chef Stefano’s hands-on approach to teaching ensures you’ll leave with more than just a full belly—you’ll gain invaluable culinary skills that will last a lifetime. Our cooking classes are designed to help you connect with Italian culture, explore the depths of traditional cuisine, and bring the flavors of Italy into your own kitchen.
Ready to get started? Book your culinary adventure today and start mastering the art of Italian cooking with Chef Stefano.
