Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - The other day my husband, who doesn't like to cook, and I attended a cooking class called Essence of Cuisine, located in "Old Town" Puerto Vallarta. My husband went because I wanted to go... and we both had the best time ever. We had been told that the experience would be quintessential for a cooking school experience."

Dolores and Robert are very congenial hosts and very gracious about having you in their amazing condo. As an introduction we all were given a Mango Basil Margarita then a quick tour of the condo. The rooms are painted in various bright Mexican colors and interesting artifacts from every part of Mexico you could imagine are displayed. It truly was a feast for the eyes.

And speaking of a feast, the ensuing class resulted in a 4 course meal that you participate in preparing and eating and was absolutely delicious, definitely an experience to remember. After the first Margarita we were all (8) like family and the interaction amongst us was exciting and fun.

We started out with Tacos made with chorizo, eggs, potatoes, onions and cheese with a green salsa sauce, then a corn pancake made with buttermilk and served with a cherry tomato basil combination. We also had grilled Arrachera (beef flank steak) marinated in Mexican spices and topped with sautéed roasted red peppers, and a Poblano Gruyere and goat cheese tart with a corn meal crust.

Dessert was roasted pears with basil syrup over ice cream and Mexican coffee with brandy tequila. Wine is served throughout the meal. Each dish can be served individually or as a brunch to impress your friends back home or when they come to visit you here in Vallarta.

The first two courses were served at the counter as each dish was completed; however, the main course and dessert were served at the most beautiful Mexican table setting I have seen - so colorful it made you happy just sitting there.

The entire class is like a Kodak moment, cameras clicking all night long. By the end of the meal people were exchanging e-mail addresses. A very happy time was had by all... even those who do not like to cook!

You get all this, and a printed recipe packet, for just $75 USD per person. This is something my husband and I will do every time we are fortunate enough to visit beautiful Puerto Vallarta.