A Warm Welcome to Savona

The sun-drenched coast of Savona beckoned me with its promise of culinary delights, and I found myself irresistibly drawn to the Savona Pasta Masterclass. As a seasoned traveler and food critic, I have had the pleasure of experiencing many a kitchen, but the allure of learning to craft pasta in an authentic Italian home was too tempting to resist.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by our gracious host, a Cesarina, whose warmth and passion for Italian cuisine were immediately evident. The small group setting fostered an intimate atmosphere, allowing us to connect not only with our host but also with fellow culinary enthusiasts. The kitchen, a charming blend of rustic elegance, was filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh ingredients waiting to be transformed into culinary masterpieces.

The Art of Pasta Making

Our lesson began with the basics of rolling ‘sfoglia’ by hand, a skill that requires both patience and precision. Under the watchful eye of our Cesarina, I learned to coax the dough into delicate sheets, a process that felt almost meditative. The tactile experience of working with the dough, feeling its texture change beneath my fingers, was a reminder of the simple pleasures of cooking.

We moved on to crafting two types of pasta: a filled variety and a fresh one. Each step was a revelation, as our host shared family secrets and techniques passed down through generations. The filled pasta, with its rich, savory filling, was a testament to the depth of flavor that can be achieved with just a few quality ingredients. Meanwhile, the fresh pasta, with its silky texture, was a celebration of simplicity.

A Sweet Finale

No Italian meal would be complete without a touch of sweetness, and our class concluded with the creation of the iconic Tiramisu. Layering the coffee-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone was a sensory delight, and the final product was nothing short of divine.

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, accompanied by a well-chosen Italian aperitivo, I reflected on the experience. The Savona Pasta Masterclass was more than just a cooking lesson; it was an immersion into the heart of Italian culture, a celebration of tradition, and a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a meal with others. For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy, this experience is not to be missed.