We had no idea what to expect…but it sounded like an adventure..
We pulled into a beautiful back yard and were warmly greeted by Antonio, and Enza- and their students/guests. It immediately felt like more of a party than a lesson- and that impression continued as our hosts rolled out a feast of local delicacies- and an Appertivo by the pool. We enjoyed getting to know our hosts, and all of the International guests who hailed from Poland, the Netherlands, Italy and two areas of the United States.
Language- No Issue
Education- Very good- and recipes followed us home
Food- Varied, Delicious and fresh- many samples from the garden
Wine- A great mix of local wines
Ok it wasn’t ALL party- We got to work.
Italian Cooking lessons in Corlignano d Otranto
Together, with Enza and Antonio we learned to make homemade Orecchiette and Macaroni, with simple ingredients. We mixed the dough, kneaded, and practiced making the famous Orecchiette shaped pasta. Not easy- it takes practice (My husband was nominated for the Ugliest Orecchiette award- which was presented to uproarious laughter) He relished every moment.
Orecchiette pasta originates from Puglia during the 12th and 13th centuries and remains popular throughout Italy to this day. The word ‘orecchiette’ means ‘little ears’
We made Macaroni as well, and then we were able to taste the results
A table full of dishes linked to their ancient family tradition, with garden vegetables, local cheeses, hand made orecchiette with fresh tomato and basil, and fresh Macaroni with mussels. All courses were accompanied by a tasting of fine “Salento wines.” We finished the evening with Authentic jam tart and Pasticciotto, and homemade Limoncello. There was a some musical stylings as well…
Education, laughter, music, food and wine- way above our expectations. Loved it and it felt like visiting with family.
Such a fun and amazing evening. We felt like we were invited to an International dinner party with the most wonderful and generous hosts. Great value, wonderful memories…
Book your cooking lessons by contacting Enza and Antonio here
FAQ’s on Pasta Making lessons
Where can I take a pasta-making class near Lecce?
In Lecce’s old town, several cooking schools run small-group orecchiette classes. We are big fans of Enza and Antonio in the Grecìa Salentina towns like Corigliano d’Otranto. These local hosts open their home kitchens and gardens for the most personal version — an evening of pasta, garden vegetables, local wine, and new friends.
How much does a pasta-making class cost in the Lecce area?
Expect roughly €90 per person for a group class including hands-on instruction, aperitivo, dinner, dessert, and plenty of wine. Expect more for a private lesson. Compared to a restaurant dinner, it’s one of the best value experiences in Puglia.
How long does a typical pasta class last?
Plan for three to four hours door to door. The hands-on pasta making itself takes about 90 minutes — mixing, kneading, and practicing the orecchiette drag-and-cup technique until your “little ears” or maccheroni look respectable. Then you sit down together to eat the results, which is the other half of the experience.
Do I need experience, and are classes taught in English?
No experience needed — most guests have never made pasta before, and the hosts expect lopsided first attempts (it’s part of the fun). Schedule ahead for an English group. Enza and Antonio are well practiced with international guests. If you book a very local, non-tourist class, confirm the language when you reserve.
Should I book a pasta class in advance?
Yes — we suggest a few weeks ahead for May through September. The best-known hosts take small groups (often 8–14 people), so popular dates fill up. If your dates are flexible, weekday classes are easier to book than weekends.