Italian Cooking Class
A Culinary Adventure in Positano: Cooking with Lauren A. Birmingham
Nestled along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, Positano is a place that feels like a dream. It’s a stunning blend of colorful cliffside homes, pristine beaches, and charming alleyways. But on my recent trip, the highlight wasn’t just the captivating scenery—it was the opportunity to connect with the heart of Italian culture through food, thanks to Lauren from Cooking Vacations.
When I arrived in Positano, I had no idea I’d be in for such a special treat. I had booked a cooking class expecting a typical culinary experience. What I didn’t expect was to not only meet her but be welcomed into her own home for a private session. Lauren and her husband graciously opened their doors to us, something we will never forget.
As soon as we met, Lauren’s warmth and passion for food radiated. It felt like visiting an old friend, and we immediately bonded over our shared love for Italian cuisine. Lauren and her husband made the experience feel like a gathering of family, rather than just a cooking class. There was something so intimate and beautiful about cooking in their kitchen, sharing stories, and connecting over recipes.
We worked with local, fresh ingredients, all while sipping on wine and chatting about our love for Italy. Lauren crafted together the perfect menu for an authentic Italian experience: a DELISH family recipe eggplant appetizer to start, followed by handmade gnocchi and a local white fish.
Lauren is the founder of Cooking Vacations, which offers a variety of immersive culinary experiences across Italy. Her cooking classes provide an authentic dive into Italian culture. For those of you who dream of diving into the world of Italian cooking, Lauren’s classes are the perfect way to do so. You can sign up directly on her website. Offering classes such as Positano, Capri, Tuscany, Venice, Sorrento, Amalfi, Rome, Naples and more, you can find the perfect experience with her team through her class programming here.
Lauren recently published her cookbook “It’s a Dream Place” with over 350 pages filled with amazing recipes from Lauren’s family, Italian Artisans and even from Michelin-Star Chef Andrea Migliaccio. The book can purchased on Amazon here or directly through her site here.
My time with Lauren was an experience I will never forget. It wasn’t just about learning to cook; it was about the joy of sharing food, stories, and life. If you ever find yourself in Italy, I highly recommend taking one of her classes. It’s not just a cooking lesson—it’s a taste of the true Italian way of living.
