Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe

Introduction

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a traditional Italian pasta dish that originates from the small village of Nerano, located on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Known for its simplicity and incredible depth of flavor, this dish showcases the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy pasta and the freshness of zucchini. It’s a comfort food that relies on just a few key ingredients, but when combined, they create a mouthwatering experience that highlights the best of Italian cuisine.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of making Spaghetti Alla Nerano from scratch. You’ll learn about its history, why it’s so beloved, and how to recreate this delectable dish at home using fresh ingredients. From the creamy sauce to the delicate pasta, each step will bring you closer to mastering this iconic Italian meal.

Why You’ll Love Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Simple, Fresh Ingredients: Spaghetti Alla Nerano is made with just a handful of ingredients, including zucchini, cheese, olive oil, and pasta. Yet, it offers a rich, layered flavor that is truly extraordinary.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The zucchini is sautéed to a perfect tenderness and combined with pasta water and cheese to create a velvety sauce that clings to the spaghetti. The result is a rich, creamy texture that’s balanced by the freshness of the zucchini.
• Authentic Italian Comfort Food: This dish encapsulates the essence of Italian cooking—simple, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. It’s comfort food at its finest, with flavors that speak to the heart of Mediterranean cuisine.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, Spaghetti Alla Nerano is the kind of dish that never disappoints. It’s elegant yet approachable, making it perfect for all occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 65-70g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Alla Nerano:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti (or any long pasta of your choice)
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmigiano-Reggiano for a milder flavor)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated provolone cheese (or mozzarella for a creamier texture)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional for garnish)
• 1 cup reserved pasta water (from cooking the spaghetti)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Start by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds. The zucchini should be cut evenly so that it cooks uniformly. You can also slice them into half-moons if you prefer. Set the sliced zucchini aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set the pasta aside, keeping it warm.

3. Sauté the Zucchini

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini slices in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the zucchini until it becomes golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Stir occasionally to ensure the zucchini cooks evenly. Once the zucchini is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. The garlic will release a rich aroma and add a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.

5. Combine the Zucchini and Pasta Water

Once the garlic is fragrant, add the cooked zucchini back into the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. The water helps to create a smooth, silky sauce by loosening up the oil and incorporating the zucchini’s flavors.

6. Make the Creamy Sauce

Now, add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and provolone cheese to the skillet. Stir the mixture gently, allowing the cheese to melt into the pasta water, creating a creamy sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce becomes thick and velvety. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

7. Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the creamy zucchini sauce. Toss the pasta and zucchini together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. The pasta should absorb the flavors of the sauce while maintaining its al dente texture. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

8. Serve and Garnish

Once the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a burst of color and a fragrant herbal note. Serve immediately while it’s still hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Spaghetti Alla Nerano.

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key to this dish’s success. It adds a mild sweetness and tender texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Choose zucchini that’s firm and free from blemishes for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Frying Zucchini: When frying the zucchini, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will cause the zucchini to steam rather than fry, resulting in a soggier texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water helps to create a silky sauce that binds well with the pasta and ensures a smooth texture.
• Adjust the Cheese: You can adjust the amount of Pecorino Romano or provolone cheese depending on your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger flavor, add more Pecorino; for a milder, creamier taste, use more provolone or mozzarella.
• Use the Right Pasta: While spaghetti is traditional, you can also use other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. The key is to choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well.

Variations of Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Spaghetti Alla Nerano with Shrimp: For a seafood twist, add shrimp to the dish. Sauté the shrimp separately and then toss them in with the zucchini and pasta for an added layer of flavor.
• Vegetarian Spaghetti Alla Nerano: While the dish is already vegetarian, you can make it even heartier by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or eggplant for more variety.
• Spaghetti Alla Nerano with Lemon: Add a fresh citrus note to the dish by incorporating a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will brighten up the creamy sauce and complement the zucchini.
• Spaghetti Alla Nerano with Bacon or Pancetta: For a smoky flavor, add crispy bacon or pancetta to the dish. Cook the bacon separately until crispy, then crumble it and mix it with the zucchini before combining with the pasta.
• Spaghetti Alla Nerano with Fresh Ricotta: Instead of using Pecorino Romano or provolone, you can incorporate fresh ricotta cheese for an even creamier texture. It will add a soft, delicate flavor to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is best enjoyed immediately after it’s made, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce during storage, so be sure to add a bit of pasta water or olive oil when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 1 month. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Pair this creamy, flavorful pasta with sides that complement its rich texture:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread is always a perfect accompaniment to pasta dishes. It helps to soak up any leftover sauce and adds a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella is a light and refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, bring an earthy flavor that balances the richness of the pasta.
• White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with Spaghetti Alla Nerano, cutting through the creamy sauce with its acidity.

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Conclusion

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a true testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, where a few simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. With its creamy sauce, tender zucchini, and deliciously cheesy pasta, it’s the kind of dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress anyone at the table. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this iconic Italian pasta and bring a taste of the Amalfi Coast to your kitchen.