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Ten Days Tour in Tuscany

September 16 - 25, 2025

  • Experience small town Tuscany
  • Pasta making and truffle hunting
  • Visit vineyards and honor US troops

Everything You Need to Know About Tuscany Tours & Trips 2025

Tuscany Vacation Package

Planning Your Dream Tuscany Vacation Package

Have you ever dreamed of standing among rolling vineyards, sipping Chianti beneath the Tuscan sun, and soaking up the colors of medieval villages? That’s what a Tuscany Vacation Package promises — a moment to step away from the rush and into a world where life tastes richer, sounds sweeter, and feels more authentic.

If you’ve been hunting for the perfect way to see Tuscany without the stress of planning every tiny detail, Tuscany Package Tours might be exactly what you’re looking for. These tours bundle accommodations, day trips, local experiences, and transportation into one seamless adventure, so you can simply show up and start making memories.

Picture yourself joining a small group of fellow travelers, guided by passionate experts who know the local language, culture, and hidden gems. That’s what a true Tuscany Vacation Package should deliver — a stress-free path straight into Tuscany’s heart.

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Why Book Tuscany Trips & Vacation Packages in 2025?

Let’s be honest. Tuscany is one of the world’s most popular travel dreams, and each year millions flock to Florence, Siena, and Pisa. But what if you could go deeper? What if you could explore small towns, learn to make pasta by hand, hunt truffles in oak forests, and dine on hilltops with only the sound of the crickets around you?

That’s exactly what Tuscany Trips & Vacation Packages for 2025 are built to offer. You’ll get a carefully planned itinerary designed to maximize your time and budget — without sacrificing authenticity. Whether it’s visiting medieval Lucca, uncovering the story of Puccini, or feeling the cool breeze of Cinque Terre’s cliffs, you can check off your bucket-list moments while going beyond the tourist trail.

The Allure of a Ten Days Tour in Tuscany

A Ten Days Tour in Tuscany gives you the rare opportunity to live la dolce vita for more than just a rushed weekend. Ten days means you can slow down, settle in, and connect with the land and its people. Imagine waking up each morning in a centuries-old villa, smelling freshly baked bread, and setting out for another adventure — from Florence’s Renaissance treasures to the vineyards of Chianti.

If you’ve ever wondered whether ten days is too long, trust me, it’s not. In fact, ten days feels like the perfect amount of time to breathe in everything Tuscany offers, without the nagging sense that you’re missing something.

Tuscany Tours & Trips 2025: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

Planning ahead is key. Tuscany Tours & Trips 2025 are already filling up because seasoned travelers know that this region books out fast — and for good reason. The region’s magnetic charm, coupled with its world-class cuisine, friendly locals, and jaw-dropping scenery, means there’s a growing rush for spots.

So ask yourself: would you rather look back and wish you’d gone, or look back knowing you did go?

Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just someone in need of a slower pace, a Tuscany vacation in 2025 could be exactly what your heart has been calling for.

A Closer Look: Your Ten Days in Tuscany

Trip Details: September 16 – 25, 2025

Here’s your inside peek at a truly special itinerary crafted to make every day count.
September 16 – 25, 2025 is when this unforgettable experience unfolds, exploring small-town Tuscany and its rustic soul. From pasta-making to truffle hunting to vineyard visits honoring American troops who fought in Italy, these ten days weave together stories, flavors, and friendships.

Trip Summary

Italy can overwhelm even the savviest traveler — so many corners to explore, so little time! That’s why this ten-day Tuscany tour focuses on what matters most: meaningful, authentic experiences. After a decade of research, what we’ve put together is the best of the best — from deep in the outlying Tuscan villages to the cozy medieval streets of Lucca, where my own heart found a second home.

Every time I stroll these cobbled lanes, it feels like meeting an old friend. Tuscany’s magic is impossible to shake off. If you’ve followed my travels or even if you’re discovering this for the first time, trust me when I say this trip will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Space is limited for a reason — this is an intimate, human-scale journey, not a giant tour bus. Let’s dive into the details.

Day 1: Welcome to Tuscany

Tuesday, September 16th

Arrive at Pisa International Airport (PSA) and transfer to Villa Casanova, our host 4-star villa, near the beautiful Tuscan coastline. After settling in, relax a bit and unwind poolside before gathering for an aperitivo and local specialties from the kitchen. This evening’s welcome dinner is on-site so we can review the upcoming program together.

Day 2: Carrara, Colonnata & Pietrasanta

Wednesday, September 17th

Today’s adventure takes us to the renowned marble quarries of Carrara, where we’ll explore the caves and learn about the mining process. Then we ascend the rugged mountains in 4×4 Jeeps for breathtaking vistas. Next stop is in nearby Colonnata for a casual lunch at The Lard Rock Cafe, known for it’s famous lardo. In the afternoon we visit the artsy village of Pietrasanta for some shopping. The day concludes with dinner at a hilltop trattoria with spectacular sunset views of the sea.

Day 3: Pasta Lessons & Viareggio

Thursday, September 18th

Begin the day with a hands-on pasta-making class at a nearby villa, learning traditional techniques from adorable chef Rita. After enjoying our freshly made pasta for lunch, we’ll head to Viareggio in the afternoon. Here we can stroll along its elegant promenade for shopping, or a walk along the beach as you soak in the seaside atmosphere. Dinner is at Da Miro, a wonderful fish restaurant only minutes away.

Italy Tour Packages

Day 4: Cinque Terre & Life in Liguria

Friday, September 19th

Today’s adventure takes us to charming cities of Cinque Terre. Traveling by ferry, we will explore colorful, cliffside villages, best seen from the water, while soaking up the beauty of the Italian Riviera. Explore narrow streets, mingle with locals and enjoy a cocktail demonstration at “The Deck of Gianni Franzi.” The day ends with a Ligurian feast prepared by Chef Jason at a private venue, complete with local wine, seafood and live jazz.
 

Day 5: Lucca

Saturday, September 20th

We explore medieval Lucca this morning with our guide, Paola, strolling through historic streets and learning about Puccini and Napoleon. After lunch on your own  perhaps exploring shops or biking on the walls- we visit the legendary “devil’s bridge,” Maddalena’s Bridge, renowned for its 13th-century design. Later, we head to Villa la Civetta, a cozy hilltop retreat, for a restful siesta by the pool, followed by a festive barbecue under the stars, complete with music, dancing, and surprises!

Day 6: Villa Tours & Tuscan Flavors

Sunday, September 21st

This morning, enjoy some free time to relax or explore at your leisure. As lunch time approaches, we will gather at Buca di San Antonio, renowned for its traditional cuisine. After a satisfying meal, we’ll visit one of the region’s historic villas, where you can admire stunning architecture and beautiful gardens steeped in history. In the evening, we will come together once more for dinner at the beloved Locanda di Sesto, where a true culinary treat awaits.

Day 7: Truffles Treasures & Tuscan Serenity

Monday, September 22nd

Today we say goodbye to our hosts and set out toward Florence. On the way, we stop in San Miniato for a truffle hunting experience, led by expert guides and their skilled dogs. After this unique adventure, we enjoy a lunch of truffle-infused specialties paired with local wines at one of the region’s top exporters. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Villa Agape in Florence, where we settle into our new accommodations. As evening falls, we gather in the villa’s warm, inviting dining room for a memorable meal.

Day 8: Florence & Flavors of Chianti

Tuesday, September 23rd

We begin our day at Villa Agape, departing for the Florence Cemetery, a tranquil haven that whispers stories of the city’s past. At midday, we head to Panzano in Chianti for an unforgettable lunch with the legendary butcher Dario Cecchini – a culinary icon celebrated for his devotion to traditional Tuscan butchery.  In the evening, you’re free to relax at Villa Agape or explore the city of
Florence on your own.

Day 9: Siena & Tuscan Spirit

Wednesday, September 24th

Siena is on our radar this morning. We’ll begin with a walking tour that reveals the city’s layered history, including the famous Palio horse race, run here since the 17th century. After immersing ourselves in Siena’s heritage, we head out for a vineyard visit and a lunch featuring local wines and cuisine, paired perfectly with views of the iconic towers of San Gimignano on the horizon. Following lunch, we return to our hotel for some downtime. As evening settles in, we make our way to another walled village for a memorable dinner that captures the spirit of Tuscany.

Day 10: Florence & Final Farewell

Thursday, September 25th

Our final day together unfolds in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich tapestry of art, history and architecture. Then, we gather for a celebratory farewell lunch, raising a glass to the unforgettable journey we’ve shared. After lunch, the afternoon is yours. Stroll through the city’s storied streets or simply relax at your leisure. For those who wish
to linger, there’s the option to stay an additional night at Villa Agape on your own, allowing you to soak in Florence’s timeless beauty just a bit longer.

Watch the Ten Days in Tuscany Video

Trip Details

What’s Included

  • Nine nights, ten days throughout the Tuscany region
  • Arrival transfer (day-of) from Pisa airport or train station to hotel
  • All hotel accommodations, meals, wine / beverages, guided tours & experiences
  • All transportation throughout trip

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Departure transport

$7,695 per person

(based on double occupancy)

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Negroni Sbagliato

(“Sbagliato” = mistaken, wrong — as in, made incorrectly)

Time: 1 Min

Serves: 1

One of my favorite drinks these days… The Negroni Sbagliato. Invented by accident (aren’t so many great recipes?), in Milan at the marble bar of Bar Basso, it’s a somewhat obscure classic. The bar owner mistakenly grabbed a bottle of Prosecco instead of gin, turning the classic Negroni into something lighter, sparkling, and instantly iconic. One sip and I understood why many Italians embraced the mistake.

These days, it’s my go-to summer aperitivo — lighter than a traditional Negroni and easy enough to enjoy two, without feeling weighed down by gin. I love serving it as a signature drink at my Villa la Civetta evenings during the Tuscany tours. It feels festive, Italian through and through, and has that golden-hour sparkle that sets the tone for an incredible night ahead.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
  • 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
  • 1 oz (30 ml) chilled Prosecco (or more, to taste)
  • Orange slice or twist, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep: Fill a rocks glass with ice to chill.
  2. Build: Drain off water from melted ice. Add Campari and sweet vermouth.
  3. Top: Pour chilled Prosecco over the top.
  4. Finish: Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice or twist.

Serving Suggestion

Serve before dinner with:

  • Olives
  • Taralli (I call these Pugliese pretzels)
  • Grissini wrapped in prosciutto
  • Prosciutto-wrapped melon
  • Bruschetta al pomodoro

Perfect for aperitivo hour — especially in warm weather.

Flavor Footnotes

  • Use a high-quality sweet vermouth; it makes a noticeable difference.
  • Play with the ratios:
    • More Campari = more bitter
    • More vermouth = deeper and sweeter
    • More Prosecco = brighter, lighter, and more festive
  • Swap the orange slice for a fresh lemon or blood orange twist.
  • A splash of soda water creates an even lighter, low-ABV version.
  • Classics are classics for a reason — but your own personal tweaks are what make them memorable. For example, I sometimes sub half the vermouth for Aperol to make a Negroni Sbagliato Spritz and serve in a red wine glass.
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Homemade Limoncello

(Limoncello fatto in casa)

Time: 7 Mins

Serves: 1 Liter

I made my very first batch of limoncello this past May under the guidance of good friend, Blake — a chemist by degree and a perfectionist when it comes to spirits and measurements. The organic lemons came straight from my dear friend Salvatore’s groves in Amalfi, where we host our Lemon Experience for Jason’s Journeys each fall. They were picked, shipped, peeled, and soaked in grain alcohol within two days of harvest. If you’ve learned one thing by now, it’s how I think: “THE FRESHER THE BETTER.”

Here in Italy, 96% pure grain alcohol is easy to find — clean, crisp, and perfect for this recipe. Skip the idea of using vodka or homemade “moonshine” grain alcohol. I like mine with less sugar and a slightly higher alcohol content (around 40%, or 80 proof), similar to the versions you’ll find in Calabria and Puglia. The result is bright, aromatic, and unforgettable — true to the Amalfi spirit with a little Tuscan touch.

Ingredients

  • 10–12 organic, unwaxed lemons
  • 750 ml pure grain alcohol (95–96%)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar (up to 1½ cups if you prefer a sweeter limoncello)

Instructions

  1. Prep the lemons: Wash and dry thoroughly. Using a sharp peeler, remove only the yellow zest — avoid every bit of white pith.
  2. Steep: Place the peels in a large glass jar and cover with the alcohol. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 12–14 days, shaking gently every day or two.
  3. Make the syrup: Heat water and sugar just until dissolved; do not boil. Cool completely.
  4. Strain: Strain the infused alcohol twice, first through a fine sieve and then through a clean coffee filter for perfect clarity. Discard the peels.
  5. Combine: Add the cooled syrup slowly, tasting now won’t help, it changes over time. You can always add water to weaken the alcohol presence, and sugar to sweeten more, but you can’t take either out.
  6. Rest: Bottle, seal well, and let rest at least 7 days, ideally 3–4 weeks in cool, dark place, then in the freezer before serving, for a smooth, silky finish.

Serving Suggestion

  • Serve ice-cold in small glasses after dinner — sip, don’t shoot, the Italian way.
  • For an aperitivo, make a Limoncello Spritz: limoncello + prosecco + sparkling water + lemon peel + fresh mint sprig.
  • Drizzle over vanilla gelato or mix into summer cocktails.

Digestivo Pairing: Perfect with panna cotta, biscotti, or espresso.

Flavor Footnotes

  • The zest is everything: get every bit of yellow, and absolutely none of the white pith.
  • Double-straining (fine sieve + coffee filter) keeps the limoncello crystal clear.
  • Steeping a full two weeks extracts the deepest color and aroma.
  • Start with less syrup; you can always sweeten more later.
  • Store the bottle in the freezer — the texture becomes silky, cold, and almost viscous.
  • Limoncello improves with age; flavor rounds out beautifully after a few weeks.
Bottling & Gifting Notes
 
  • Swing-top bottles are fantastic for home use.
  • For gifting, use clear glass bottles with synthetic corks and add shrink-style seals for a professional finish.
  • Create a custom label — great for holiday gifts or Jason’s Journeys guest departures. (Note to self)
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Blueberry Panna Cotta

(Panna cotta ai mirtilli)

Time: 45 Mins

Serves: 4

While Italy has no shortage of simple custard-style desserts — from semifreddo to crema catalana — panna cotta has always been my favorite for its simplicity and freshness. “Panna cotta” literally means cooked cream, even though it never touches an oven. I often serve it at Villa la Civetta in small, chilled cups after dinner, topped with whatever fruit is perfectly ripe that week.

I love the summer blueberries, but this dessert adapts beautifully throughout the year — strawberries in May, raspberries in June, peaches in late summer. And for a slightly more decadent twist, a quick caramel drizzle gives it an elegant, non-fruit finish. Smooth-sided aluminum cups work wonderfully for easy unmolding at larger parties, but small soufflé dishes or even sturdy rocks glasses are great options too.

Ingredients

Panna Cotta

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or seeds from ½ vanilla bean)
  • 2½ tsp powdered gelatin (or 3 gelatin sheets)
  • 3 tbsp cold water (for blooming powdered gelatin only)

Blueberry Sauce


  • ¾ cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1–2 whole cloves (or a tiny pinch of ground clove)
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
  • Fresh lemon juice, to finish

Instructions

  1. Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle powdered gelatin over 3 tbsp cold water and let sit 5 minutes until softened. (If using gelatin sheets, soak them in cold water until softened, then squeeze gently before adding to the warm cream mixture)
  2. Heat cream: Warm cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until hot (do not boil).
  3. Combine: Remove from heat. Add vanilla, then whisk in the softened gelatin (or softened sheets) until completely dissolved.
  4. Chill: Pour into small cups, aluminum molds, soufflé dishes, or rocks glasses. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Make the blueberry sauce: In a small pan, combine blueberries, sugar, cloves, and cinnamon. Cook gently until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and add a squeeze of fresh lemon. Cool fully.
  6. Serve: Spoon the blueberry sauce over each panna cotta just before serving.

Serving Suggestion

Serve chilled with extra berries and a small mint sprig.

Wine Pairing: Moscato d’Asti or Vin Santo.

Flavor Footnotes

  • Real vanilla (bean or extract) makes a huge difference in depth and aroma.
  • The perfect panna cotta should have a soft, delicate wobble — never rubbery.
  • Chill your serving cups first for a perfectly smooth set.
  • Serve directly in the cups or molds — unmolding is optional.
  • A quick caramel drizzle can replace the fruit entirely for a more refined dessert.

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    Italian-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

    (Polpette al Sugo)

    Time: 45 Mins

    Serves: 4

    I grew up eating spaghetti and meatballs — my mom is 100% Italian, and in our house it was comfort food in its purest form. It’s one of the great Italian-American dishes, and there’s nothing wrong with loving it just as it is.

    But in Italy, meatballs are served differently. You won’t find them over spaghetti. Instead, they’re gently simmered in sauce, like this recipe, or fried and topped with Parmigiano and a little lemon. This version is the one I make most often — simple, honest, deeply flavorful.

    Ingredients

    For the Meatballs

    • 1 lb ground beef • 7 oz ground pork (optional but traditional)
    • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs • ½ cup whole milk
    • 1 egg
    • ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
    • Salt & black pepper
    • Olive oil, for searing

    For the Tomato Sauce

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
    • 28 oz crushed tomatoes or passata
    • 1 tsp sugar (or whole peeled/chopped carrot – to balance acidity)
    • Salt & pepper
    • Fresh basil leaves

    Instructions

    1. Make the mixture: Soak breadcrumbs in milk until softened. Combine with beef, pork (if using), egg, Parmigiano, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper; mix gently.
    2. Shape: Roll into golf-ball-sized meatballs; set aside.
    3. Brown: Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium. Brown meatballs lightly on all sides; remove and set aside.
    4. Start the sauce: In the same pan, sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, season, and bring to a gentle simmer.
    5. Simmer: Nestle the meatballs into the sauce, cover, and cook 35-55 minutes, turning occasionally.
    6. Finish: Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning.

    Serving Suggestion

    Serve with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or yes — over spaghetti if that’s how you grew up and love it.

    Wine Pairing: A young Chianti or Barbera d’Asti.

    Flavor Footnotes

    • A spoonful of ricotta, in the meat mixture adds tenderness, or some on the side makes for a great condiment.
    • For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with ground fresh eggplant — it works beautifully as a binder.
    • Gentle browning keeps the meatballs soft; avoid searing over high heat. Consider baking versus a skillet.
    • If the sauce thickens too much, add water and simmer slowly.
    • Shape the meatballs ahead and refrigerate for stress-free entertaining.
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    Fried Porcini Mushrooms, Tuscan Style

    (Funghi porcini fritti)

    Time: 7 Mins

    Serves: 4

    Some years, porcini season in Tuscany is good — but this fall it was incredible. After the right mix of rain and sunshine, the forests were full of them, and you’d see foragers in town carrying small wooden baskets, pedaling their finds to restaurant owners. 

    I buy mine from roadside stands or a small produce shop in Lucca Centro, where the friendly owner always helps pick the ones I like — and slips me a sprig of fresh nepitella (wild mint) for porcini tagliatelle (recipe coming in the next booklet!). 

    As delicious as fresh porcini are, you can absolutely use other mushrooms in a pinch — cremini, portobello, or whatever you can find. The idea here is simplicity. Let the earthy, woodsy flavor speak for itself. And as always in Italy, and anywhere: the fresher, the better.

    Ingredients

    • 4–6 fresh porcini mushrooms (depending on size)
    • ½ cup flour (or a mix of flour + 1–2 tbsp semolina or fine polenta for extra crispness)
    • Salt & freshly ground black pepper
    • Olive oil, for frying
    • Lemon wedges, for serving
    • 1 beaten egg (optional for a slightly thicker crust)

    Instructions

    1. Prep: Cut away only the very end with dirt. Clean gently with a damp cloth — never rinse under running water.
    2. Slice: Cut into ½-inch slices. 
    3. Season: Mix flour, salt, and pepper (and semolina/polenta if using).
    4. Dredge: Dust slices lightly in the seasoned mixture (or dip in beaten egg first for a thicker crust).
    5. Fry: Heat olive oil over medium and fry 2–3 minutes per side, until golden.
    6. Finish: Drain on paper towels, season with a pinch of salt, and serve immediately.

    Serving Suggestion

    Serve hot as an antipasto with a simple aioli and crusty bread, or alongside grilled meats as a vegetable side dish. 

    Wine Pairing: Sangiovese or Pinot Nero.

    Flavor Footnotes

    • Never wash porcini under running water — they absorb moisture and lose flavor.
    • Fresh porcini are best enjoyed the same day they’re picked or purchased.
    • Try them raw: thin slices with olive oil, lemon, salt, and Parmigiano.
    • Adding semolina or fine polenta in the flour mix adds a beautiful crisp edge.
    • Salt moderately, immediately out of the oil, truffle salt is great.
    • A squeeze of lemon brightens their earthy richness instantly.
    • For fresh porcini pasta, look for the upcoming recipe booklet featuring porcini tagliatelle with nepitella.

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      Eggplant Parmesan

      (Parmigiana di Melanzane)

      Time: 80 Mins

      Serves: 6

      Growing up next door to my Grandma Greco, it seemed like eggplant parm was always on the table. I can still remember the aroma, the one I could smell long before I got to her back door. When I started my catering company 25 years ago, this was the first dish I carried forward — I’ve never stopped making it.

      These days I grow the eggplant, several varieties, far more than I can cook. This recipe defines comfort food; familiar and versatile, like lasagna, it’s one of the best make-ahead dishes you can keep in your freezer — ready to thaw and bake when company arrives.

      Ingredients

      • 1 large eggplant (sliced as thin as possible)
      • Kosher or sea salt
      • 1 cup seasoned flour
      • 2 beaten eggs
      • 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or high-quality)
      • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (add fresh mozzarella too if you want)
      • ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
      • Olive oil, for frying
      • Fresh basil leaves, torn

      Instructions

      1. Prep the eggplant: Lay slices out, sprinkle lightly with salt, and rest 30 minutes. Pat dry.
      2. Dredge: First dip in beaten egg, dredge completely in to flour.
      3. Fry: Shallow-fry in olive oil until lightly golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels. Lightly salt.
      4. Preheat: Heat oven to 375°F.
      5. Assemble: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish, then layer eggplant, mozzarella, Parmigiano, and basil. Repeat, finishing with sauce and cheese.
      6. Bake: Cover with parchment and then foil; bake 30–45 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
      7. Rest & serve: Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with torn basil and extra cheese.

      Serving Suggestion

      Serve with a simple green salad or roasted peppers. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves.

      Wine Pairing: Chianti Classico Riserva or Nero d’Avola.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • Slice eggplant thin, with a mandolin if you have one.
      • “Less is more”: don’t overload with cheese or sauce — let the eggplant shine.
      • Salting first draws out moisture and removes any bitterness.
      • This dish freezes beautifully before baking — wrap tightly and cook later.
      • For a lighter version, brush slices with olive oil and roast instead of frying.
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      Tuscan Kale & Borlotti Bean Soup

      (Zuppa di Fagioli e Cavolo Nero)

      Time: 60 Mins

      Serves: 6

      This hearty vegetable soup holds a special place in my heart. When I arrived at Villa la Civetta for the first time (since the closing months prior), it was cold, dark, and raining. My neighbor, Gina, had a pot of this waiting for me on the stove. I was exhausted from travel, fumbling for light switches, and that first bowl felt like pure comfort — warm, simple, unmistakably Tuscan.

      Since that night, Gina and I have made it together many times, often with vegetables straight from my garden. I’ve shared it on live TV back in Pittsburgh, and it always reminds me of that feeling of caring. There’s nothing better than having a pot of soup ready when guests arrive — especially in winter — it says, “welcome, come in out of the cold.”

      Ingredients

      • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for finishing)
      • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
      • 2 carrots, diced • 2 celery stalks, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced
      • 2 small zucchini, diced • 1 small potato, peeled & diced
      • 1 cup chopped ripe tomatoes (fresh or canned)
      • 2 cups cooked borlotti beans (reserve broth & half beans for puréeing)
      • 4–5 cups vegetable broth (or enough to cover)
      • 2 cups chopped cavolo nero (Tuscan kale / lacinato kale)
      • Salt & freshly ground black pepper
      • Parmesan rind (optional)
      • Chopped parsley or basil, for garnish

      Instructions

      1. Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook until soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
      2. Add vegetables: Stir in garlic, zucchini, and potato; cook 3–4 minutes.
      3. Add tomatoes: Cook until they begin to break down.
      4. Add broth & beans: Pour in broth, most of the borlotti beans, and the Parmesan rind (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
      5. Purée to thicken: Remove ½ cup of beans with a little broth, purée, and stir back in — this gives the soup a natural, velvety body.
      6. Add greens: Stir in cavolo nero and simmer 25–30 minutes, until tender.
      7. Finish: Season generously with salt and pepper. Remove the Parmesan rind before serving.

      Serving Suggestion

      Serve hot with crusty Tuscan bread rubbed with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. Top with Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh herbs.

      Wine Pairing: Chianti Classico or Morellino di Scansano.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • Cavolo nero is essential — its earthy flavor defines this soup.
      • Puréeing a portion of the beans is the key to the soup’s texture.
      • Consider doubling or tripling the recipe — it freezes exceptionally well.
      • The soup thickens and improves overnight — leftovers are outstanding.
      • A Parmesan rind enriches the broth; omit it to keep the soup vegetarian.
      • Always finish with a drizzle of your best olive oil.
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      Fresh Basil Pesto

      (Pesto Di Basilico Fresco)

      Time: 5 Mins

      Serves: 6

      I first learned to make pesto in the classic Ligurian style, oddly enough, on a small boat in 2017 along the jagged Cinque Terre coastline, during my early Ten Days in Tuscany tours. The chef onboard showed our group how to gently work the basil, pine nuts, and cheese together by hand, first seasoning the mortar with fresh garlic.

      Later that summer, I met a pesto master in Prà, the hillside village outside Genova where basil pesto was born. From those lessons, I learned that real pesto isn’t about blending — it’s about patience, balance, and respecting the basil above everything else.

      Ingredients

      • 2 packed cups fresh young basil leaves
      • ⅓ cup pine nuts (Italian if possible; see Flavor Footnotes for alternatives)
      • 1 fresh peeled garlic clove (split, remove core, especially if green)
      • ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
      • ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano (This two-cheese combination is the true classic Ligurian blend — Parmigiano for sweetness, Pecorino for salinity.)
      • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (approximately, add to desired consistency)
      • Sea salt, to taste

      Instructions

      1. Before you start: In true Ligurian style, use the garlic clove to “season” the mortar first — this softens the bite and perfumes the basil.
      2. Begin the base: In a mortar and pestle (or a food processor if you must), add the garlic and a pinch of sea salt. Add the basil and pine nuts.
      3. Crush or pulse: Work gently until a coarse paste forms — never rush this part.
      4. Add olive oil: Drizzle in the olive oil slowly, stirring or pulsing just until combined.
      5. Finish with cheese: Fold in the Parmigiano and Pecorino by hand so the pesto stays soft and creamy.
      6. Season: Taste and adjust — in Italy, garlic enhances, it never dominates. Add more only if you love a stronger flavor.

      Serving Suggestion

      Toss gently with fresh pasta, spoon over tomato and mozzarella, or serve with burrata and toasted bread.

      Wine Pairing: Vernaccia di San Gimignano or Pigato from Liguria.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • Young basil leaves keep the pesto sweet, tender, and bright green.
      • For nut alternatives: walnuts and blanched almonds are excellent; toast lightly for deeper flavor.
      • For nut allergies: substitute toasted breadcrumbs — a trick used in parts of Liguria.
      • Never blend pesto until smooth; the texture should remain rustic.
      • When storing, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to protect the color.
      • Freeze in small jars or ice-cube trays for perfect portions.
      • Never heat pesto directly — toss only with warm, drained pasta.
      • Variations I often make: arugula pesto (peppery), parsley pesto (fresh and herbal), or mixes of all three.
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      Slow-Roasted Tomato Confit

      (Confit di pomodoro arrostito lentamente)

      Time: 180 Mins

      Serves: 8

      By August, my vines are typically drooping with a colorful rainbow of tomatoes — some years more, others less, but always enough to make this recipe worth doing. Honestly, I use whatever the garden gives me: sometimes I roast yellow tomatoes on their own, sometimes the red cherries, and other times I combine everything I have left.

      I learned this method from a neighbor who once told me, “Let the oven be the sun.” Slowly roasting the tomatoes concentrates their flavor into something rich and sweet, perfect for bruschetta, pasta, or honestly, spooned straight from the jar.

      Ingredients

      • 2 lbs cherry or Roma tomatoes, halved
      • 6 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
      • Several sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary
      • 1 tsp sea salt
      • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
      • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

      Instructions

      Before you start: Firm, ripe tomatoes work best. Smaller varieties roast faster and become sweeter. Rinse well, pat dry.

      1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 250°F.
      2. Season: In a mixing bowl, lightly toss the tomatoes with salt, pepper, garlic and olive oil.
      3. Arrange: Spread the tomatoes on a baking sheet
      4. Roast: Cook for 2–3 hours, until tomatoes have shriveled slightly but remain tender and juicy.
      5. Store: Cool completely, pack into clean jars, and pour the roasting oil over top. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks.

      Serving Suggestion

      Serve warm over toasted bread with ricotta, or toss through fresh pasta with basil and Parmigiano.

      Wine Pairing: Rosé di Toscana or a light Chianti.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • Removing skins is optional — once cooled, they’ll slip off easily with tongs if you prefer a smoother confit.
      • Save every drop of the infused oil — it’s incredible in salad dressings or drizzled over grilled vegetables.
      • Freeze small portions flat for winter; they thaw quickly and taste like summer.
      • I often use old pesto jars with rubber-seal lids — they store perfectly and look great in the fridge.
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      Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms

      (Fiori di zucca ripieni)

      Time: 35 Mins

      Serves: 4

      La Cecca inspired this recipe — one of my favorite restaurants in Lucca. Their version pushed me to perfect my own, using blossoms snapped right off the tops of small zucchini in the morning. My daughters would sometimes help gather them, carefully removing stamens with their smaller hands, before we filled them.

      The filling is soft, fresh, and just a little savory thanks to a touch of anchovy paste — a trick I learned along the way that deepens the flavor without ever taking over. Don’t skip it. You can find anchovy paste in tubes, or just smash 1-2 from the can.

      Ingredients

      • 10–12 fresh zucchini blossoms
      • ¾ cup ricotta cheese (drained if wet)
      • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan or Pecorino
      • 1 tsp lemon zest
      • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil and mint
      • Salt and pepper
      • ½ tsp anchovy paste (or 1 small anchovy, finely mashed)
      • 1 egg
      • 2 tbsp flour
      • ½ cup cold sparkling water (for a light batter)
      • Olive oil, for frying

      Instructions

      1. Prep the blossoms: Gently open each blossom and remove the stamens.
      2. Make the filling: Combine ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, herbs, salt, pepper, and anchovy paste until smooth.
      3. Fill: Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each blossom so that the petals still enclose the filling; twist the tips closed.
      4. Make the batter: Whisk the egg, flour, salt and cold sparkling water into a thin, smooth batter (similar to pancake batter in thickness).
      5. Fry: Heat olive oil over medium. Dip each blossom into the batter and fry until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.
      6. Finish: Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with sea salt and a little extra Parmesan, and serve warm.

      Serving Suggestion

      Serve over a spoonful of fresh tomato sauce or as an antipasto alongside grilled vegetables.

      Wine Pairing: Prosecco Superiore or a crisp Vermentino.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • The fresher the blossoms, the better — ideally picked and cooked the same day.
      • A little anchovy paste adds subtle, savory depth; don’t leave it out.
      • For a more elegant variation: nestle the fried blossoms into warm marinara, bake briefly, and finish with fresh basil.
      • Or go richer: top with crumbled gorgonzola and melt lightly before serving.
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      Zucchini Blossom Fritters

      (Frittelle di Zucchine e Fiori di Zucca)

      Time: 30 Mins

      Serves: 4

      I’m starting this packet with these fritters because they were brand-new to me — and I first made them while hosting 25 guests at Villa La Civetta during one of my Tuscany tours. I trusted my instincts, mixed the batter until it felt right, and hoped the flavors would land. They did, and they disappeared fast.

      My hope is that this recipe inspires you to try something new, too. The blossoms brighten everything, the mint and parsley give it lift, and a squeeze of lemon with a little pecorino on top brings it all to life. If I could make these for a full house of hungry travelers, you can absolutely make them at home.

      Ingredients

      • 2 small zucchini, grated
      • 8–10 zucchini blossoms, stamen removed and roughly chopped
      • 2 eggs
      • 4 tbsp grated Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano
      • 4 tbsp flour (00 or all-purpose; chickpea flour also works)
      • Small handful fresh mint and flat-leaf parsley, chopped
      • Salt and pepper
      • Pinch of baking powder (optional, but great for a little puff)
      • Cold sparkling water, as needed to loosen the batter
      • Olive oil or sunflower oil for frying

      Instructions

      Before you start: Always fry one small tester to check seasoning. Adjust the batter before cooking the whole batch.

      1. Prep the zucchini: Grate the zucchini, lightly salt, let drain for 10–15 minutes. Squeeze out excess water.
      2. Make the batter: In a bowl, beat the eggs, add flour, baking powder, cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper. Fold in zucchini and blossoms.
      3. Adjust texture: Add just enough cold sparkling water to make a thick, scoopable batter — not runny.
      4. Fry: Heat about 1.5 inches of oil in a heavy pan until shimmering. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil and fry until golden, turning once.
      5. Drain & serve: Transfer to paper towels and sprinkle with sea salt while hot.

      Serving Suggestion

      Serve warm with herbed Greek yogurt, lemon aioli, or a dollop of herbed ricotta. A squeeze of lemon at the table is always welcome.

      Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Vermentino.

      Flavor Footnotes

      • A touch of lemon zest in the batter brightens things up.
      • Chop blossoms right before adding so they stay vibrant.
      • Mint + baking powder + cold sparkling water give the fritters their lift.
      • No blossoms? No worries — the fritters still turn out fantastic.
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