Spaghetti Alla Nerano

This Spaghetti Alla Nerano recipe is a delightful Italian dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. With its creamy texture and the lovely crunch of fried zucchini, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. This pasta dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients, making it suitable for both casual weeknight meals and elegant occasions. You’ll love how quickly it comes together while delivering gourmet flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of fried zucchini and parmesan creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—serve it on a weeknight or impress guests at dinner parties.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh zucchinis and basil ensures each bite bursts with flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Spaghetti Alla Nerano, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Slotted spoon: Helps remove fried zucchini without excess oil, keeping your dish light.
• Large skillet: Perfect for tossing pasta with sauce ingredients to achieve a creamy consistency.

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)
• 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus more for drizzling)

For the Pasta

• 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 it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Fry the Zucchini

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 5: Toss Pasta with Zucchini

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the cooked pasta.
– Toss with the zucchini mixture, adding reserved pasta cooking liquid as needed until creamy.

Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle in grated parmesan cheese and continue tossing until all pasta is coated in a creamy sauce.
– Season with additional salt if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving. Offer additional parmesan on the side for guests who want more!

How to Serve Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a dish that shines on its own, but with a few thoughtful serving suggestions, you can elevate the dining experience. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these ideas will enhance the flavors of this creamy pasta.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – The warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Focaccia – This Italian bread’s soft texture pairs well with the richness of the pasta.

Add a Simple Salad

• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil provide a refreshing contrast.
• Arugula Salad – A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.

Finish with Extra Parmesan

• Grated Parmesan – Serve extra grated parmesan on the side for guests who love that cheesy flavor boost.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle just before serving enhances the flavor and adds richness to the dish.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture and flavor in your Spaghetti alla Nerano, here are some essential tips. These will help you create a restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini – Fresh zucchini will have the best flavor and texture. Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis.
• Control Oil Temperature – Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying zucchini. This ensures they become crispy rather than soggy.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely – Reserve enough pasta cooking liquid to adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting its flavor.
• Toss Thoroughly – When combining pasta and zucchini, toss well to ensure every strand is coated in sauce for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Complementing your Spaghetti alla Nerano with suitable side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that pair well:

1. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil makes for a delightful starter.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty side option.
4. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness.
5. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates an appealing appetizer spread.
6. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta pairs well with the creamy texture of spaghetti, creating a comforting combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Alla Nerano, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Zucchini: If you fry the zucchini too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a golden brown color and remove them promptly.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Failing to save pasta cooking water can lead to a dry dish. Always reserve some before draining your spaghetti.
• Skipping Fresh Basil: Using dried basil instead of fresh will diminish flavor. Fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and taste to the dish.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add parmesan too soon, it might clump together. Toss it in at the end for a smoother sauce.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your pasta bland. Taste and adjust salt after mixing all ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions for easier thawing.

Reheating Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between, until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a creamy Italian pasta dish made with fried zucchini and parmesan cheese. It’s known for its rich flavors and quick preparation.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with pecorino or even a mix of cheeses for different flavors.

How do I make Spaghetti Alla Nerano gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

What can I serve with Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread. You could also serve it as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Can I customize my Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavors and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy texture and gourmet flavors will impress your guests while being quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!