La Cucina di Sandra is much more then just a cooking school. Being welcomed into Sandra’s beautiful home, nestled in the quiet back streets of Richmond, is like escaping to your own little slice of Italy for the evening. On this occasion my plus one and I were excited to sample the culinary delights of the island of Sicily.
For this event I strategically selected my plus one based on their lack of skills in the kitchen, hoping that next time I visit for dinner I don’t have to do a Mr. Bean, hiding mouthfuls of food around the place until my plate is empty. (You get the picture.)
Breton (right) and his plus one – photo courtesy The World Loves Melbourne
The evening took place over four delightful dishes, not including the Parmesan shortbreads baked earlier that day (of which my plus one enjoyed so much he ate almost half the plate). We started off with a simple and fresh Italian-style Gazpacho, the perfect dish for those long summer lunches that can’t come soon enough. I will definitely be adding this one to my list of must makes.
photo courtesy The World Loves Melbourne
We continued on our ride through Sicilian cuisine with a hearty sardine tart and a delicious modern take on pesto, which featured creamy tomato ricotta & fresh herb sauce while replacing the pine nuts with almonds for more of a crunch. BELLISSIMO! We finished off with a boozey soaked sponge Cassata. Lucky we were walking home!
photo courtesy The World Loves Melbourne
The main feature of the evening of course was Sandra herself, who gave the perfect mix of humour and history over the night. Sometimes laughing with her, sometimes at her, through her adorable and evident passion for food she takes you on a journey where no one will ever leave hungry.
Sandra – photo courtesy The World Loves Melbourne
Lu Cucina di Sandra runs a variety of classes to choose from, and she is more then happy to tailor an evening to the needs of her guests. The night was definitely something you could go alone to and leave with a bunch of new friends, facilitated by Sandra’s passion and warmth. The experience is the perfect birthday/Christmas gift, or in my case a much-needed hint to a mate who could use some cooking inspiration for the next time they invite you over.
– Brenton
Brenton Spink is a social Melburnian who loves a good feed, drink, dance, and other related shenanigans. Find him on Twitter at @SoSpinky.
La Cucina di Sandra cooking classes runs in Richmond. Book in now!
http://www.lacucinadisandra.com.au/
