Fresh pasta with a view near Asti Langhe, Roero, Monferrato

Imagine spending a few hours in Italy’s rolling hills, surrounded by vineyards and wild herbs, while learning to make some of the country’s most iconic dishes. That’s exactly what this 4-hour pasta-making experience offers — a hands-on journey into Piedmontese cuisine with a Tuscan twist, led by a passionate chef, Andrea. For $83.08 per person, you get more than just a cooking class; it’s an authentic taste of Italy’s culinary soul, set against some of the most picturesque scenery near Asti.

What we love most about this experience is Andrea’s warm and knowledgeable approach, making even tricky techniques approachable. Plus, the stunning panoramic views of the Monferrato hills elevate the entire class, turning a simple cooking lesson into a memorable countryside escape. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a lengthy tour or a full-day deep dive, this is more focused and intimate — which is perfect for most. It’s especially suited for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a genuine connection with Italian gastronomic traditions without the fuss.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just eager to try your hand at pasta, this class offers real value — from learning regional recipes to savoring your creations with local wines. It’s a balanced experience that emphasizes authenticity, technique, and good company, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of Italy’s culinary heritage in a tranquil setting.

This experience made our article of 10 Must-Try Tours In Asti.

Key Points

• Authentic Recipes: Learn to make tajarin, ravioli del plin, and pici senesi using traditional techniques.
• Stunning Setting: Enjoy the panoramic views of hills, vineyards, and wild herbs from the Monferrato countryside.
• Expert Guidance: Andrea combines professional skill with a friendly teaching style, making every step clear.
• Flexible Group Size: Small groups (max 8 travelers) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Balanced Experience: Combines cooking, tasting, and local wine in a warm, family-style environment.
• Value for Money: At just over $80, you receive a hands-on culinary lesson, scenic vistas, and authentic dishes.

Meeting and Setting the Scene

The tour begins at Casapaletti Country House, located just a short drive from Moncalvo and Asti. You’ll meet Andrea, who greets you with warmth and enthusiasm. The location itself offers a peaceful escape from city life, surrounded by vineyards and the scent of herbs — a perfect backdrop for inspiring culinary creativity.

The Class: A Hands-On Journey into Piedmontese and Tuscan Flavors

In Andrea’s cozy kitchen, you’ll start by selecting local ingredients and understanding their role in regional cuisine. The highlight is learning to prepare two types of dough: one with eggs for the Piedmontese tajarin and ravioli del plin, and one without eggs for the pici senesi, a typical Sienese pasta.

What’s special here is Andrea’s focus on authentic techniques. For example, he demonstrates how to delicately make the plin for ravioli, a skill that requires patience and finesse. The class is very interactive — you’ll get to knead, roll, fill, and fold your pasta, gaining confidence with each step.

The Recipes: Traditional Pasta with a Personal Touch

You’ll learn to craft tajarin, a thin, egg-rich pasta that’s a regional staple in Piedmont. Andrea’s insights help you understand how ingredient quality and technique influence the final dish. Then, you move on to ravioli del plin, a tiny, flavorful ravioli filled with local ingredients, folded with a delicate pinch (or “plin”). Lastly, the pici, a rustic, hand-rolled pasta from Tuscany, without eggs, giving it a slightly different texture and flavor.

Each pasta type is prepared with seasonal sauces and ingredients, emphasizing the importance of freshness. The class also concludes with a seasonal dessert, adding a sweet finish that reflects the local culinary tradition.

Tasting and Enjoying Your Creations

Once the pasta is made, you’ll sit down to enjoy your culinary handiwork. Andrea ensures you get to taste your dishes accompanied by local wines, enhancing the authentic experience. Reviewers have consistently praised the quality of the food and wine, with many noting that the final dishes were some of the best they’ve had in Italy.

Scenic Views and Relaxed Atmosphere

Throughout the class, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the hills, vineyards, and countryside — a backdrop that transforms a cooking lesson into a complete sensory experience. The setting is informal and family-friendly, perfect for relaxed conversation and genuine enjoyment.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring plenty of personalized attention. Sessions start at 11:00 am and last about four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that balances activity and leisure. Andrea’s friendly approach makes it accessible whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete novice.

The Value Proposition

At just over $80, this experience offers excellent value. You get a full hands-on cooking class, recipes to recreate at home, memorable scenery, and local wines. Guests consistently mention the insightful teaching, the delicious food, and Andrea’s warm hospitality as highlights.

A Few Considerations

If you’re expecting a long, intensive culinary tour or want to explore multiple regions in one day, this may feel a bit narrow. It’s focused mainly on pasta-making and tasting, so those wanting a broader culinary adventure might need to supplement it with other activities.

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn traditional pasta recipes in an authentic setting. It also suits anyone interested in regional Italian cuisine or wanting a memorable experience with stunning scenery. If you enjoy interactive activities that combine learning with tasting, you’ll find this to be a genuine highlight. It’s especially ideal for small groups, families, or couples seeking a relaxed, intimate introduction to Italy’s culinary traditions.

In a country where food is woven into the fabric of daily life, this pasta class offers more than just a lesson — it provides a genuine window into local culture, technique, and flavor. Andrea’s friendly guidance, combined with the spectacular views and delicious dishes, makes this a memorable highlight for anyone visiting the Asti region.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a hands-on, authentic experience that leaves them with new skills and wonderful memories. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll appreciate the careful attention to tradition, the beautiful surroundings, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from making and tasting your own pasta.

For those wanting a meaningful taste of Italy’s culinary heart, this class hits the mark — offering value, authenticity, and a genuine connection to local life.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll learn to make three types of pasta — tajarin, ravioli del plin, and pici — along with a seasonal dessert. The experience also includes tasting your dishes with local wines.

How long does the class last?
About four hours, starting at 11:00 am, providing enough time for hands-on cooking, tasting, and enjoying the views.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, Andrea’s teaching style is friendly and clear, making it accessible to all skill levels.

Do I need to bring anything?
All ingredients and equipment are provided — just bring your enthusiasm and a desire to learn!

Are vegetarian options available?
The recipes focus on traditional pasta and local ingredients; if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire directly with Andrea.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for kitchen work. Aprons are typically provided.

Can children participate?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, especially since reviews mention children enjoyed it.

Is alcohol included?
Wine is served during tasting but only to guests above the legal drinking age.

What if the weather is bad?
The class is held indoors, so weather won’t affect the experience. If canceled, a different date or full refund is offered.

In all, this pasta-making adventure near Asti offers a perfect blend of culinary skill, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re looking to elevate your home cooking or simply enjoy an authentic taste of Italy, it’s a delightful choice.