Spaghetti Alla Nerano

This Spaghetti Alla Nerano recipe is a rich and creamy pasta dish made with fried zucchini and parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Italian classic brings gourmet flavors to your table in just 30 minutes! With its unique combination of ingredients, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fried zucchini and parmesan creates an irresistible creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: Using simple, fresh ingredients ensures that this dish can be enjoyed any time of year.
• Gourmet Presentation: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.
• Vegetable Forward: Packed with zucchini, this recipe adds a healthy twist to traditional pasta dishes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make preparing Spaghetti Alla Nerano a breeze!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the spaghetti evenly to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Slotted spoon: Allows you to easily remove the fried zucchini from hot oil without excess oil clinging to them.
• Large skillet: Ideal for tossing the pasta with the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated evenly.

Ingredients

For the Fried Zucchini

• ½ quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil) (2 cups)
• 6 medium zucchini (thinly sliced) (about 2 1/2 pounds)
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• Kosher salt (to taste)

For the Pasta

• 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 cups grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Add the sunflower oil to a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Fry the Zucchini

Fry the zucchini in the oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.

Step 3: Prepare Zucchini Mixture

Combine the fried zucchini with chopped basil and salt, to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 2 cups of pasta cooking liquid before draining.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Zucchini

Add the cooked pasta to a large skillet over medium-low heat. Toss with the cooked zucchini, adding reserved pasta cooking liquid as needed until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese

Add the grated parmesan cheese and continue tossing until well combined. The pasta should be fully coated in a creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle with additional olive oil and serve immediately with more parmesan on the side for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Spaghetti Alla Nerano!

How to Serve Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple meal or an impressive dinner presentation, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the creamy pasta.

Add Grilled Chicken

• Sliced grilled chicken breast on top of the pasta provides protein and makes the dish more filling.

Drizzle with Extra Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bite.

Serve with Toasted Bread

• Offer slices of toasted bread on the side for a great way to scoop up any leftover sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Basil

• Top your plate with more fresh basil leaves to bring out the aromatic notes of the dish.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Perfecting Spaghetti Alla Nerano revolves around technique and ingredient quality. Follow these tips for an unforgettable experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini and basil enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture that holds up in sauces.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking liquid; it helps create a creamy sauce when tossed with the other ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to ensure that every element is well-seasoned.
• Mix Quickly: Toss the pasta and zucchini together while still warm; this helps the cheese melt into a creamy sauce.
• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is traditional, try mixing in some pecorino cheese for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Pairing side dishes with Spaghetti Alla Nerano can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for mopping up any sauce.

2. Caprese Salad
   A fresh combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to rich pasta.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus add color and nutrition, balanced by light seasoning.

4. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

5. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates a great starter that pairs well with Italian flavors.

6. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutritious element to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spaghetti Alla Nerano can be simple, but small errors can affect your dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When frying zucchini, ensure there’s enough space in the pan. Overcrowding prevents even cooking and can result in soggy vegetables.
• Not Salting the Water: Always salt your pasta water generously. This step enhances the flavor of the spaghetti, making a significant difference in the final taste.
• Skipping Pasta Water Reserve: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is essential for achieving a creamy sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
• Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor and creaminess to the dish.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Keep an eye on both the zucchini and pasta cooking times. Undercooked or overcooked ingredients can ruin this delicate balance of textures.
• Rushing the Sauce Mixing: Take your time when combining pasta with zucchini and cheese. Slow mixing helps integrate all flavors and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Spaghetti Alla Nerano will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for long-term storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, texture may change slightly on reheating.

Reheating Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to revive creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Spaghetti Alla Nerano.

What is Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a traditional Italian dish featuring spaghetti tossed with fried zucchini and parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy pasta experience.

Can I add other vegetables to Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Absolutely! You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Is there a vegetarian version of Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Yes! Simply omit any meat products you may wish to include. The dish is naturally vegetarian-friendly with just zucchini and cheese.

How do I make Spaghetti Alla Nerano vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of any animal-based options.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

You can use other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type selected.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish shines with its gourmet flavors. Feel free to customize it with seasonal veggies or alternative cheeses, making it your own unique creation. Enjoy every bite!