The vegan pantry
Learn the Basics of Plant-Based Cooking
25 February 2026
At 18-22
Villa Sambuca, Toscana, Livorno (LI), IT
Teacher:
Simone Cipriani
Born in Livorno, Simone discovered his passion for cooking early on, inspired by his restaurateur father.
After training in top Italian kitchens, he explored Michelin-starred restaurants, global cuisines, and television programs—always guided by one principle: respect—for ingredients, people, and the planet.
In 2018, Food & Wine named him one of Italy’s most influential under-35 chefs. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Der Feinschmecker, Gambero Rosso, and more.
At Valle Benedetta Retreat Center, Simone curates the gastronomic vision of our restaurant:
an ethical, plant-based cuisine that nurtures wellbeing, celebrates seasonality, and honors the earth.
More info:
25 February 2026
At 18-22
Villa Sambuca, Toscana, Livorno (LI), IT
Language: Italian
Accessible to everyone
Included:
Dinner
Handouts
Learn the Basics of Plant-Based Cooking
This course focuses on semi-prepared essentials that can help even beginners take their first steps into plant-based cuisine.
We’ll talk about the environmental impact of our food choices, the key ingredients to keep in your kitchen, plant-based alternatives to animal products — and how to make them yourself.
At Valle Benedetta, surrounded by nature and authentic flavors, you’ll learn how to create satisfying, healthy, and nourishing plant-based meals
Who is this course for
This course is ideal for those who:
- Want to explore a more mindful and low-impact way of eating, but don’t know where to start
- Are curious about how to create delicious and nutritious plant-based dishes
- Want to discover plant-based alternatives to animal products
- Would love to learn DIY techniques to stock their pantry at home
What you’ll learn
- The environmental impact of everyday food choices
- The basic ingredients to always keep on hand for plant-based cooking
- Plant-based substitutes for animal-derived products
- How to make your own vegan staples and condiments
- Techniques to create satisfying and nourishing dishes
What you’ll take home
Each participant will receive handouts with ingredient lists and core recipes to create their own plant-based dishes.
At the end of the course, we’ll cook a dish together using some of the bases you’ll have just learned to prepare.
You’ll leave with greater awareness and the tools you need to begin your plant-based journey.
The other courses in the cycle
Fun Dining
The Creative Potential of Plant-Based Cuisine
25 March 2026
Simone Cipriani
A course to explore the most creative side of plant-based cuisine and shape gourmet dishes with simplicity and imagination.
For those who want to experiment, have fun, and create their own plant-based menu at home.
Naturally vegan
Traditional Italian Cuisine, Naturally Plant-Based
11 March 2026
Simone Cipriani
Rediscover the roots of our regional cuisine and its naturally vegan dishes. In this course, you’ll learn how to creatively and simply reinterpret traditional Italian gastronomy in a plant-based way.