Hands-On Italian Meal: Calzone, Cacio e Pepe, Lemon Ricotta Cake
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required; suitable for all skill levels interested in cooking.
Overview
Craft your own Italian feast from calzones to cacio e pepe and finish with a luscious lemon ricotta cake. Join Smoky Mountain School of Cooking for a private, hands-on culinary adventure that’s perfect for food lovers of any skill level.
Details
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with the 'Hands-On Italian Meal: Calzone, Cacio e Pepe, Lemon Ricotta Cake' offered by Smoky Mountain School of Cooking. This private cooking class invites you to roll up your sleeves and create a classic Italian feast from scratch. Learn the art of preparing traditional calzones, a crispy yet tender folded pizza stuffed with savory fillings. Discover the simplicity and rich flavor behind cacio e pepe, a timeless Roman cheese and pepper pasta dish that emphasizes quality ingredients and technique. To top it all off, handcraft a delicate lemon ricotta cake, a light and tangy dessert that perfectly rounds out your meal. This immersive culinary journey is designed for home cooks of all levels who want to master Italian basics while enjoying a relaxed, interactive atmosphere. The intimate setting ensures personalized guidance from expert instructors, sharing tips on dough handling, sauce preparation, and baking secrets. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply elevate your dinner repertoire, this experience blends education and fun effortlessly. Located at the Smoky Mountain School of Cooking in a region famous for its scenic beauty and rich Appalachian culture, this class also offers a chance to connect with local flavors and community. After your session, take home your favorite recipes and newfound skills to recreate these Italian classics time and again. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of culinary tradition and the joy of cooking together.
Trail Tips
Arrive with Clean Hands
Good hygiene is essential in a cooking class to keep the experience safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little flour or sauce on during the cooking process.
Ask Questions Freely
This is a learning experience, so feel free to ask instructors for clarification or additional tips to make your cooking better.
Take Notes and Photos
Jot down recipe tweaks and techniques, and snap photos to remember key steps for recreating dishes at home.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet trail at Greenbrier near the school
- Hidden waterfall hiking spot in nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Wildlife
- Eastern Box Turtle
- Black Bear (from a safe distance)
History
Smoky Mountain cooking traditions blend Appalachian and Southern influences, rooted in early 20th-century homesteading practices.
Conservation
The area promotes local sourcing and sustainable food practices, supporting small farms and reducing environmental impact.
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Cooking station close-ups
- Finished plated dishes
- Scenic exterior entrance of the cooking school
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Apron
Protect your clothes from flour, sauce, and other cooking ingredients.
Notebook and Pen
Use them to take notes on recipes and cooking techniques during class.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture process photos to help you replicate the recipes at home.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the hands-on cooking experience.
all specific