Riomaggiore Gnocchi and Pesto Cooking Class
About this activity
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Experience Highlights
A gastronomic experience that lasts approximately 3 hours and takes place on the property of an expert chef in Riomaggiore, in the heart of the Cinque Terre. Overlooking the sea and the surrounding vineyards, it is the perfect place to learn how to prepare the region's most famous dish, gnocchi al pesto. The activity includes water, local wines and a homemade dessert.
- Learn how to make delicious vegetarian gnocchi and pesto recipes in this cooking class in Riomaggiore.
- Improve your cooking skills with tips from an expert Italian chef.
- Taste the local wines and enjoy a stroll through a vineyard overlooking the sea
- Take advantage of a small group activity in an intimate and personalised experience.
What’s included
- Gnocchi and pesto cooking class in Riomaggiore
- Expert cook
- Lunch or lunch (3 courses)
- Aperitif
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Step by Step
This cooking class will give you the opportunity to learn how to prepare, together with an expert local cook, the typical dish of the Riomaggiore region: gnocchi al pesto. The experience takes place in a farmhouse in a picturesque location in the Cinque Terre. The experience lasts about 3 hours and includes a homemade dessert or fresh fruit, wine and a walk through the vineyard, where the hosts will explain the varieties grown and their characteristics.
Traditional Genovese pesto is prepared by grinding fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan or pecorino cheese, extra virgin olive oil and salt. Its exact origin is a matter of debate, but it is believed to date back to medieval times. The key transformation that gave rise to pesto as we know it today is the addition of pine nuts, probably from the 19th century onwards. Gnocchi al pesto are appreciated for their simplicity and fresh, aromatic taste.
The experience ends with a homemade dessert. In the region, the most traditional is the almond tart, which is made with finely ground almonds or hazelnuts, sugar, eggs and often lemon zest or other flavourings such as vanilla. The outside is golden brown and slightly crunchy, while the inside remains tender. Alternatively, lunch or dinner is finished with fresh fruit.