When most people think of Neapolitan food, the first thing that comes to mind is its world-famous pizza. And while it’s true that the city is the birthplace of the pizza margherita, there is much more to Neapolitan cuisine. I am happy to attest to that. While I love a great pizza, when I visit Naples, I dream of eating fried seafood, gateau di patate, impepata di cozze, pasta with potatoes and provola, cannelloni, simple baked fish, and seasonal vegetables.
The Richness of Neapolitan Cuisine
From the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast to the busy city streets, the flavors of Neapolitan food are bold, fresh, and full of tradition. Naples is renowned for dishes that highlight the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some of my favorite recipes include:
- Spaghetti alle vongole – A quintessential Neapolitan pasta dish, spaghetti with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, white wine, and a touch of chili pepper for heat is simple and delicious.
- Gnocchi alla Sorrentina – While this dish originates in the town of Sorrento, it is loved in Naples too. Soft potato gnocchi, baked in a tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella, and a dusting of grated Parmigiano Reggiano; what’s not to like?
- Sweets like sfogliatella, babà and pastiera
Why Take a Traditional Cooking Lesson in Naples rather than a pizza lesson?
Why not take both? I must confess that I love cooking lessons of any type. I always learn something new. I come away inspired to add dishes to my repertoire. I enjoy the scents, the laughter and being truly present, putting my hands in dough is therapeutic.
I started on a journey studying Italian food history and cooking when I moved to Italy. It connects me to the past and present. Learning traditional recipes gave and still gives me insight into a culture and connects me to my Italian ancestors. While I make pizza at home once in a blue moon, the traditional recipes are the ones that I keep coming back to. I hope that you’ll enjoy a lesson as much as I do.
The Casa Mia Tours traditional Neapolitan cooking lesson takes place in an intimate and warm atmosphere where you learn first hand from a home cook. The cook’s passion is contagious. Each dish is a masterpiece — imagine learning how to prepare dishes like mini calzoni Napoletani, gnocchi all Sorrentina, and Parmigiana di Melanzane. At the end of the lesson, you’ll sit down to a well earned meal! From fresh pasta and meatballs to torta caprese, savor the food, laughter, and make new memories.
Your journey to becoming a Neapolitan cook starts here. Buon appetito!
