The Apulian territory is very different depending on the area: you can go from a coastline of cliffs and emerald water, one with sand dunes and clear blue sea, and then not to forget all the areas between hills and plain, where the vegetation and nature lord it in every way, providing a perfect environment for agricultural activities.
In this regard, the Apulian traditional cuisine is very much based on ingredients produced by agricultural activities: in addition to being the main source of livelihood for a large number of families, agriculture was also the basis for the preparation of a large number of recipes, which they are the basis of the Salento cuisine.
It was usual that even wild herbs, grown in uncultivated areas, were used to create dishes from simple but intense taste: consider for example the chicory, the “lampascioni” wild onions, or simply peppers and eggplant, used in recipes in which these ingredients are also sometimes served raw, especially in the summer period.
When the vegetables are not only used to create only simple vegetable dishes, we can season with lightness pasta dishes, like homemdade orecchiette and cavatelli.
There are many recipes that we find this cuisine, which offers us more and different dishes according to the different seasons, so that during the milder seasons, as in spring and summer, preference is given to vegetables, for example in winter legumes they are widely used.
Chef Gianna will accompany you in the small local market of the historical center, where you will meet the local producers and you can pick and taste the fresh seasonal vegetables, strictly km0, which will be part of your cooking class.
Once back in school, the chef will teach you how to clean and cook them with the traditional recipes of the Salento, and prepare healthy dishes like white fava beans with chicory, stuffed eggplant, sauteed vegetables, stuffed pumpkin flowers, peperonata and many other delicious dishes based on what the season and our land we offer.
To flavor dishes, guests can pick directly from the Cooking Experience garden mint, basil and other Mediterranean flavors. Unmissable will be extra virgin olive oil, precious gold for each recipe.
Finally, we will taste the healthy dishes prepared in combination with excellent wines of Salento.
You can make a full vegetarian menu, or more ingredients may be provided.
We recommend to communicate, in advance of any intolerances, allergies or dietary restrictions.
Each season has its own flavor, you just need to choose your favorite time to come and discover the beauties of Salento and taste its food and wine goods!