Cooking class in the countryside with Simona

Imagine strolling through a lush garden in the Sicilian countryside, gathering ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, then heading into a cozy kitchen where you’ll learn to craft traditional dishes. That’s exactly what this countryside cooking class with Simona offers—an intimate, hands-on immersion into Sicily’s culinary soul.

What we love most about this experience? First, the personal touch — Simona’s warmth and expertise make every lesson feel like a visit to a friend’s home. Second, the fresh ingredients—you pick your produce, which means your dishes are rooted in genuine local flavors. Third, the relaxed atmosphere—whether you’re on the sunny terrace or cozy kitchen, it’s all about slow food and good company. One possible consideration? The group size is small, which limits availability, so booking at least 10 days in advance is recommended.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, homemade Sicilian cuisine, enjoy learning culinary secrets directly from locals, and want a peaceful escape in nature. If you’re after a genuine cultural exchange rather than a touristy cooking class, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic rural setting: Located in a peaceful countryside house surrounded by greenery.
• Hands-on cooking: You actively participate in ingredient gathering and meal preparation.
• Cultural insights: Conversation often turns to Sicilian life, customs, and local ingredients.
• Custom menus: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
• Small group size: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value for money: At around $116, you get a memorable, multi-course experience with plenty of local flavor.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting and Atmosphere

This cooking class takes place in a family-run countryside house in Chiaramonte Gulfi, a small town in Sicily. The reviews repeatedly highlight the peaceful, scenic environment—surrounded by olive trees, pines, and a gentle countryside that instantly puts you at ease. The house itself looks charming and rustic, with a welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel like they’re visiting friends rather than strangers.

In warmer months, the communal lunch is often served on a terrace or garden, with views of the rolling hills, adding a scenic backdrop to your meal. During winter, the cozy indoor kitchen with a wood stove creates a warm, intimate setting perfect for comfort food.

The Itinerary: From Garden to Table

The experience begins with a walk in Simona’s garden, where you’ll be encouraged to choose the ingredients you’ll use—tomatoes, basil, onions, and possibly wild vegetables in the winter. This part is as much about connecting with the land as it is about cooking. One reviewer mentions how they picked fresh herbs and vegetables from “an extensive garden set amongst ancient olive trees,” adding to the sense of genuine Sicilian life.

After gathering ingredients, the class moves into the kitchen, where Simona shares recipes inspired by her grandmother’s cookbooks. The menu is diverse, including fresh pasta like ravioli and tagliatelle with homemade pesto, vegetarian dishes like caponata or “i pipi ca muddica,” and classic Sicilian snacks like arancini, scacce (Sicilian flatbread), and panelle.

What makes this part special? It’s the interactive nature. You’re not just watching; you’re kneading, rolling, stuffing, and frying under Simona’s guidance. The reviews describe the process as “hands-on cooking for the whole family,” emphasizing the inclusive, relaxed vibe.

The Food and Drink

Once the dishes are cooked, it’s time to sit down for a delicious, shared meal. The menu features a variety of traditional Sicilian recipes, prepared with ingredients freshly picked or sourced locally. One reviewer notes a meal beginning with “focaccia made by Simona with local cheeses and homemade chutneys,” setting the tone for honest, flavorful dishes.

A highlight for many is the lunch conversation—Simona and her family often share stories about Sicilian life, local products, and culinary traditions. The food is described as “honest, delicious, and slow,” reflecting the unhurried pace of the experience. During good weather, dining on the terrace adds a memorable scenic element, while in colder months, the cozy kitchen with its wood stove makes for a warm gathering.

Additional Details and Practicalities

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, a solid half-day of fun, food, and conversation.
• Group size: Limited to 10 travelers, fostering a personalized experience.
• Booking lead time: Usually booked about 10 days in advance, a good idea given the small group size.
• Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free menus are available, but make sure to specify these needs when booking.
• Price: At about $116 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering the hands-on nature, quality ingredients, and intimate setting.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback is glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 14 reviews. Guests have praised Simona’s warm hospitality, the authenticity of the recipes, and the beautiful setting. One reviewer described it as “a relaxing experience in the middle of nature with interesting conversation and hands-on cooking for the whole family.” Another highlighted the “wonderful, home-cooked” meal that made them feel like part of the family.

Numerous comments mention the fresh ingredients, particularly the vegetables and herbs picked directly from the garden, adding to the authenticity. The experience also scores high on cultural insights—learners appreciate hearing about Sicilian customs, local life, and the “excellences and shortcomings of this land.”

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike typical cooking classes that can feel scripted or commercialized, this experience emphasizes authenticity and personal connection. Simona’s warmth, along with her family’s hospitality, make this more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a chance to see what daily life in rural Sicily feels like. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the beautiful natural setting, offers an escape from hustle, letting you enjoy good food and conversation in equal measure.

Who Should Consider It?

This experience is ideal for those who want to connect with Sicily’s culinary roots in a meaningful way, rather than just ticking off a cooking class on a list. It’s perfect for food lovers, cultural explorers, and travelers seeking a serene rural retreat. If you’re after a highly personalized, authentic Sicilian experience that includes both cooking and cultural exchange, this class will suit you well.

The Sum Up

This countryside cooking class with Simona provides a genuine taste of Sicilian life, combining fresh ingredients, expert guidance, and warm hospitality. The intimate setting and customizable menu make it a valuable experience for anyone interested in authentic regional cuisine. It’s not just about learning recipes—it’s about sharing stories, enjoying slow food, and truly experiencing Sicily’s culinary and cultural richness.

For travelers craving an authentic, relaxing, and immersive culinary experience—this is a wonderful choice. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate genuine personal touches, love fresh ingredients, and want to understand the everyday life of Sicilian families. Just remember to book early, as the small group size fills up quickly.

FAQ

How many people can join this cooking class?
The class is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

Is there an option for dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free menus are available. Just be sure to inform Simona in advance when booking.

How long does the experience last?
It typically lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes, including ingredient gathering, cooking, and eating.

Where does the class take place?
In a countryside house in Chiaramonte Gulfi, surrounded by olive trees and greenery, offering a peaceful setting.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the cooking lesson, ingredients, and a shared meal at the end. Beverages are included, but check if wine is available, as many reviewers enjoyed local wine with lunch.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, on average, 10 days ahead is recommended because of the small group size and high demand.

This countryside Sicilian cooking class promises a heartfelt journey into regional flavors, authentic hospitality, and a peaceful escape into nature. It’s an experience that will linger long after the last bite.