Hands-on Pasta Making Class near the Amalfi Coast with Rosanna

A Genuine Taste of Italy: Pasta Making with Rosanna near the Amalfi Coast

If you’re dreaming of a true Italian culinary experience, this hands-on pasta making class near the Amalfi Coast offers a unique chance to step into a local family’s home and learn their cherished traditions. Hosted by Rosanna and her brother Antonio in the charming village of Pianillo, this private experience is about more than just cooking — it’s about connecting with Italian culture through food, family, and history.

What I love most about this experience are the personal touches that make it stand out. First, the chance to visit a family farm operated by four generations of growers means everything is farm-fresh and organic, from the vegetables to the olive oil. Second, the intimacy of a private class means you get tailored attention and an authentic, relaxed atmosphere — no crowds, no rushed lessons. That said, one consideration is the effort needed to reach the farm, as transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly to make the most of it.

This class is ideal for those craving a genuine slice of Italian life, food lovers eager to learn traditional techniques, and anyone with dietary needs (the reviews highlight excellent gluten-free options). Just be prepared for a travel or taxi ride to the meeting point, and keep in mind that the menu may vary seasonally.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic family farm experience: Hosted by third-generation farmers Rosanna and Antonio, offering farm-fresh ingredients.
• Hands-on pasta making: Learn to craft Neapolitan-style scialatielli and gnocchi alla Sorentina from scratch.
• Local wine and organic ingredients: Enjoy organic wine and vegetables directly from the farm, enhancing the rustic flavor.
• Personalized, private activity: Only your group participates, making it a relaxed and engaging experience.
• Dietary flexibility: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available — just inform ahead.
• Visit to the wine cellar and garden: Picking fresh herbs and wine tasting adds a lovely local touch.

Entering the Heart of Amalfi’s Food Culture

This experience begins in a family home in Pianillo, just a short drive from Positano. Your hosts, Rosanna and her brother Antonio, welcome you with warmth and a cup of coffee — a small but meaningful gesture that sets the tone for a friendly, intimate visit. You’ll get to explore their organic farm and see firsthand how they produce their wine, cheese, and olive oil, all from ingredients grown right on their land.

The highlight here is the visit to their wine cellar, where you can pick a bottle of their organic wine, a step that makes the meal all the more authentic. Their garden, bursting with seasonal vegetables and herbs, provides the ingredients you’ll use in your cooking class. This part of the experience reminds you of the importance of local, sustainable food — something Italians have mastered for generations.

Making Pasta with Passion

Once in the kitchen, Antonio acts as your translator, ensuring you understand each step while Rosanna guides you through the process of making two types of pasta. These are typically scialatielli, a Neapolitan pasta, and gnocchi alla Sorentina made from potato flour. The process is engaging and fun — as they say in Italy, “mettere le mani in pasta” — putting your hands in the dough.

You’ll learn to make sauce using farm-fresh vegetables, organic extra virgin olive oil, and herbs. The focus isn’t just on technique but on understanding how simple, quality ingredients can create deeply flavorful dishes. Multiple reviews praise Rosanna’s attention to dietary needs, including gluten-free preparations, making this accessible for guests with allergies or restrictions.

Dining with a View

After the cooking, the moment to savor your creations comes with a glass of their organic wine at the family table. The meal is a true showcase of regional flavors — fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and farm-grown vegetables — all enjoyed in a warm, family-style setting. The experience is relaxed, with the hosts sharing stories about their farm and family traditions.

Price and Value Analysis

At $328 per person, this class may seem a bit pricey at first glance, but considering it’s a private, personalized experience that includes a full meal, wine, and farm tours, the value becomes clearer. The intimate setting, homemade food, and genuine local hospitality offer a quality that many larger cooking classes lack. On top of that, the reviews underscore the high level of care, especially noting the excellent gluten-free options and the hosts’ attentiveness.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for foodies, couples, or families who want more than a demonstration — they want a hands-on, personal connection to Italian culinary traditions. It’s particularly suited for those with dietary restrictions, as the hosts show great flexibility. It also appeals to travelers interested in sustainable farming, organic food, and small-scale family farms.

Beyond the Class: Practical Tips for Your Visit

Getting to the farm requires some planning since transportation isn’t included. Many guests have found it worth arranging a taxi or private transfer from Positano or nearby towns. The meeting point is in Pianillo, and the farm’s location offers a peaceful break from the busier coastal towns, with stunning views of the surrounding hills.

The class lasts about 3 hours, a perfect amount of time for a relaxed morning or afternoon. The flexible menu, depending on the season, keeps the experience fresh and authentic. Be sure to inform the hosts about any dietary needs when booking to ensure a smooth experience.

Who Should Book This?

Travelers looking for a quieter, more authentic experience away from crowds will appreciate the intimacy of this private class. It’s ideal for food lovers eager to learn regional recipes, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of local life. If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast and want an insider’s look at Italian farm life, this class offers a warm welcome and plenty of delicious rewards.

Final Thoughts

This pasta-making experience near Positano offers much more than a cooking lesson. It’s a chance to step into a family’s world, learn their recipes, and taste the fruits of their labor. The hosts’ genuine hospitality, farm-fresh ingredients, and personalized approach make it a highlight for anyone seeking authentic Italian culture.

While it’s not a budget activity, the value lies in its exclusivity, authenticity, and the delicious meal you’ll take home — along with a new appreciation for Italy’s culinary traditions. If you love good food, meaningful connections, and a break from tourist crowds, this class hits the mark.

Who It’s Best For:

• Travelers seeking an authentic family experience
• Food enthusiasts eager to learn regional pasta recipes
• Guests needing gluten-free or vegetarian options
• Those interested in organic and sustainable farming practices
• Anyone longing for a relaxed, private activity in a beautiful setting

FAQs

Is transportation included to the farm?
No, transportation is not included, so you will need to arrange a taxi or other transport to the meeting point in Pianillo.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Can I request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?
Yes, these options are available. Be sure to specify dietary restrictions when booking.

What ingredients are used during the class?
You’ll use farm-fresh vegetables, herbs, and organic extra virgin olive oil produced on the farm.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the hands-on nature and family setting could appeal to children, especially if they enjoy cooking.

Is the experience private?
Yes, this is a fully private activity for your group only, providing a personalized and intimate setting.

Are there any seasonal menu variations?
Yes, the menu may vary depending on what’s available on the farm during your visit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This pasta class offers a genuine slice of Italy’s culinary soul, wrapped in a warm family setting with stunning views and farm-fresh ingredients. Perfect for those seeking meaningful local experiences, it’s a memorable way to taste, learn, and connect with Italian traditions far from the tourist crowds.