A Warm Welcome to Varenna

As the sun began its descent over the picturesque town of Varenna, my wife and I found ourselves navigating the winding roads that led to the home of Antonietta and Paolo. The journey itself was an adventure, with the switchbacks offering glimpses of the serene Lake Como below. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Antonietta, whose warmth was as inviting as the aroma wafting from her kitchen. “When you are in my house, it is your house,” she declared, setting the tone for an evening that promised to be both intimate and indulgent.

Our culinary journey began with a selection of rice balls and croquettes, paired with our choice of local red or white wine. The flavors were a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region, each bite a delightful prelude to the evening ahead. As we settled into the cozy ambiance of Antonietta’s home, the conversation flowed as freely as the wine, setting the stage for a night of culinary exploration.

The Art of Italian Cooking

With aprons donned and hands washed, we embarked on the hands-on portion of our experience. Under Antonietta’s expert guidance, we learned the art of crafting bruschetta and zucchini roll-ups, each dish a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. My wife, ever the eager student, took to the task with enthusiasm, her laughter mingling with the clinking of glasses and the sizzle of ingredients in the pan.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the pasta-making session. Guided by Antonietta’s patient instruction, we crafted spinach and cheese ravioli, as well as tagliatelle noodles. The process was both meditative and exhilarating, the tactile experience of kneading dough and shaping pasta a reminder of the simple joys of cooking. As the pasta took shape, so too did our anticipation for the meal to come.

A Feast to Remember

Just as we were ready to savor the fruits of our labor, Paolo returned home, accompanied by their charming dog, Athena. The table was set, and we gathered around to enjoy a meal that was as much about the company as it was about the food. The ravioli, delicate and flavorful, was a testament to the skills we had acquired under Antonietta’s tutelage. The tagliatelle, though we were too full to fully appreciate it at the time, was a delightful addition to our leftovers, extending the experience into the days that followed.

As we lingered over tiramisu, the conversation turned to stories of family, travel, and the shared love of good food. The evening stretched into night, the hours slipping away unnoticed in the warmth of Antonietta and Paolo’s hospitality. As we bid farewell, our hearts and bellies full, we left with not only a newfound appreciation for Italian cuisine but also a sense of connection to the people who had so graciously welcomed us into their home.

For those seeking an authentic taste of Varenna, I cannot recommend this experience enough. Antonietta and Paolo’s home is a haven for food lovers, a place where the art of cooking is celebrated and the joy of sharing a meal is cherished. Cesarine Cooking Class