Cooking in Cinque Terre Riomaggiore: Gnocchi & Pesto in Riomaggiore

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is a stunning seaside village with colorful houses clinging to dramatic cliffs and a culinary tradition as vibrant as its landscape. This immersive cooking class offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of preparing two iconic dishes of Ligurian cuisine: handmade gnocchi and fresh basil pesto.

The experience begins with a warm welcome from your host in their charming local home or cooking studio, set against the backdrop of Riomaggiore’s breathtaking scenery. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the process of creating soft, pillowy gnocchi from scratch. Using simple, fresh ingredients like potatoes and flour, you’ll discover the secrets to achieving the perfect dough consistency and shaping techniques to make your gnocchi truly authentic.

Next, dive into the aromatic world of pesto. Liguria’s pesto is world-famous, and this class provides the chance to master its preparation in the traditional way: using a mortar and pestle. You’ll learn to blend the region’s finest basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil into a rich, vibrant sauce bursting with flavor. The hands-on nature of the class ensures you gain confidence and skills to recreate these recipes in your own kitchen.

After the cooking is complete, sit down with your fellow participants to savor the fruits of your labor. Paired with a glass of local Ligurian wine, your homemade gnocchi with pesto is a delicious reward and a memory to treasure.

This cooking class isn’t just about food; it’s about connection—connecting with the local culture, your host, and the timeless traditions of this beautiful region. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this experience offers a relaxed and enjoyable way to immerse yourself in Ligurian life.

Perfect for food lovers and travelers seeking an authentic experience, this class captures the essence of Riomaggiore and Ligurian cuisine, leaving you with cherished memories and recipes to take home.