Introduction
Spaghetti alla Nerano is the epitome of simple Italian cooking, where a handful of humble ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary. This dish is a delicate balance of creamy, cheesy richness and the fresh, almost buttery flavor of sautéed zucchini, all carried by perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s not just pasta; it’s a celebration of simplicity and the power of quality ingredients.
This recipe is especially close to my heart because it embodies the spirit of summer evenings in the Italian countryside. I first tasted Spaghetti alla Nerano on a trip to the Amalfi Coast, and every bite felt like sunshine on a plate. The combination of tender zucchini slices, fried to golden perfection, and the sharp tang of grated provolone cheese creates a sauce that clings luxuriously to the strands of pasta.
Spaghetti alla Nerano is perfect for a quick but elegant meal. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for a weekday dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Pair it with a crisp white wine, like Falanghina or Greco di Tufo, and you’ve got a meal that transports you straight to southern Italy. If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated, Spaghetti alla Nerano is the one to try!
Perfect for:
- Lovers of authentic Italian cuisine
- Quick and elegant dinners
- Vegetarian meal options
- Summer or light pasta dishes
- Fans of creamy, cheesy flavors
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Spaghetti alla Nerano will earn a spot in your recipe repertoire:
- Authentic Italian Flavor: A taste of the Amalfi Coast in every bite.
- Vegetarian Delight: A hearty and satisfying meatless meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: Works well as a main course or a side dish.
- Minimal Ingredients: A simple yet impressive recipe that highlights quality over quantity.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates: 60g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 10g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your Spaghetti alla Nerano:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated Provolone del Monaco cheese (or substitute with aged provolone)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Zucchini: Thinly sliced and lightly fried to achieve a tender, golden texture.
- Provolone del Monaco Cheese: A unique, tangy cheese that adds depth to the dish.
- Spaghetti: The perfect pasta to absorb the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil and Garlic: The foundation of flavor for the dish.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of color and herbal freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Spaghetti alla Nerano:
Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice and Fry: Thinly slice the zucchini and pat dry with a paper towel. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the zucchini in batches until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Season: Lightly season the fried zucchini with salt and set aside.
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for frying the zucchini, reduce the oil to about 1 tablespoon and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Zucchini: Return the zucchini to the skillet and toss to combine with the garlic.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of reserved pasta water and the butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture starts to emulsify.
Combine Everything:
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the zucchini mixture.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the grated cheese, tossing constantly, and add reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
How to Serve
Spaghetti alla Nerano is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
- Family-Style: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic Italian presentation.
- Individually Plated: Portion into pasta bowls and top with extra cheese and basil.
- Paired with Wine: Complement with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Spaghetti alla Nerano is restaurant-quality, keep these tips in mind:
- Thin Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin zucchini slices.
- Don’t Overcook: Maintain the zucchini’s texture by frying it until just golden.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This is essential for creating the creamy sauce.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate the cheese yourself for the best melting and flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
Recipe Variations
Here are 10 ways to customize your Spaghetti alla Nerano:
- Add Protein: Include grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier version.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for an extra-rich sauce.
- Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
- Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh parsley or thyme along with basil.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and olive oil instead of butter.
- Cheese Blend: Mix provolone with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest for a bright, zesty note.
- Crunchy Topping: Garnish with toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Zucchini Noodles: Replace half the spaghetti with zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the zucchini may lose its texture.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of pasta water.
Special Equipment
Enhance your cooking experience with these tools:
- Mandoline Slicer: For perfectly thin zucchini slices.
- Large Skillet: Provides ample space to toss the pasta and sauce.
- Whisk: Helps emulsify the sauce for a creamy texture.
- Pasta Pot: Essential for boiling spaghetti efficiently.
- Tongs: Great for tossing the pasta and zucchini mixture.
- Grater: Ideal for freshly shredding cheese.
- Measuring Cups: For accurately reserving pasta water.
FAQ Section
- Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, fettuccine or linguine works well as alternatives. - What cheese can replace Provolone del Monaco?
Aged provolone or even Parmesan are good substitutes. - Can I bake this dish?
While traditionally not baked, you can transfer it to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and broil briefly. - How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add cheese off the heat and toss vigorously with pasta water to create a smooth sauce. - Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use vegan cheese and skip the butter. - What oil is best for frying zucchini?
Use light olive oil or vegetable oil for frying. - How thin should the zucchini be sliced?
Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick for quick, even frying. - What’s the best wine pairing?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino pairs beautifully. - Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, its creamy, mild flavors make it appealing to children. - Can I add other vegetables?
Sure! Try adding thinly sliced eggplant or cherry tomatoes.
Conclusion
Spaghetti alla Nerano is a sublime celebration of simplicity and flavor, transforming humble ingredients into an unforgettable dish that will transport you to the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast. The tender zucchini, caramelized to perfection, melds seamlessly with the silky strands of spaghetti, while the creamy Provolone del Monaco cheese adds a luxurious depth to every bite.
What makes this recipe truly special is its effortless elegance; it’s a dish that feels equally at home on a casual weeknight table or as the star of a dinner party spread. You can also make it your own—experiment with the thickness of the zucchini slices, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or pair it with a crisp white wine to enhance its Mediterranean charm.
Spaghetti alla Nerano is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the simple joys of Italian cooking. I can’t wait for you to experience this culinary gem! Be sure to share your beautiful creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you bring this dish to life. Buon appetito!