Spaghetti Alla Nerano

This Spaghetti Alla Nerano recipe is a rich and creamy pasta made with fried zucchini and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines the fresh flavors of summer zucchini with the savory richness of cheese. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy families or elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gourmet dish in under 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fried zucchini and parmesan creates a creamy sauce that is both indulgent and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: This pasta can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making it perfect for any meal.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and zucchini gives this dish a vibrant taste that highlights seasonal produce.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious flavor profile, Spaghetti Alla Nerano is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano, gather your kitchen tools beforehand. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the spaghetti efficiently.
• Skillet: Ideal for frying the zucchini until perfectly golden brown.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from the fried zucchini without losing any pieces.
• Cutting board & Knife: Necessary for slicing the zucchini and chopping fresh basil easily.

Ingredients

For the Fried Zucchini

• ½ quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil)
• 6 medium zucchini (thinly sliced)
• 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 slices in the hot oil until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Mix Zucchini with Basil

Combine the fried zucchini with chopped basil and season with kosher salt to taste. Drizzle with olive oil before setting aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 2 cups of pasta cooking liquid.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Zucchini

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the drained pasta along with the cooked zucchini. Toss together gently, adding reserved pasta cooking liquid as needed until you achieve a creamy sauce consistency.

Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese while continuing to toss until all ingredients are well combined, creating a creamy coating over the pasta. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Drizzle additional olive oil on top before serving. Offer extra parmesan on the side for those who want an added cheesy touch!

How to Serve Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this creamy pasta.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve slices of grilled chicken on top for added protein.
• Turkey Meatballs: Small turkey meatballs can be a tasty addition alongside the pasta.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle extra chopped basil on top for enhanced flavor and color.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and a pop of green.

Drizzle with Extra Olive Oil

• Rich Flavor Boost: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the dish’s richness.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Creating the perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a delightful result.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Use fresh, firm zucchini for the best flavor and texture.
• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying zucchini to achieve crispiness without sogginess.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water; it helps create the creamy sauce consistency.
• Combine Quickly: Mix the pasta with zucchini and cheese while hot to ensure everything melds beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Complement your Spaghetti Alla Nerano with these delightful side dishes that balance flavors and textures.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds an aromatic touch and perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings sweetness to your meal.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus has a nice crunch that pairs well with creamy pasta.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add heartiness to your plate.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad made with cucumber, feta, and olives complements the dish nicely.
6. Crispy Polenta Cakes: Golden polenta cakes provide a unique texture contrast while being absolutely delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spaghetti Alla Nerano can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using stale zucchini: Always use fresh zucchini for frying. Stale or overly ripe zucchini can lead to a soggy texture.

• Not salting the pasta water: Salting the cooking water enhances the flavor of the spaghetti. Be generous with salt; it should taste like seawater.

• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This starchy water is essential for achieving a creamy sauce. Don’t forget to reserve it before draining your pasta.

• Overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente spaghetti, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce. Check your pasta a minute or two before the package instructions recommend.

• Adding cheese too soon: Incorporate parmesan only after mixing in the zucchini and pasta. This step ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without clumping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Spaghetti Alla Nerano in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, note that texture may change slightly.

Reheating Spaghetti Alla Nerano

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring between intervals until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water and gently stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about preparing and enjoying Spaghetti Alla Nerano:

What makes Spaghetti Alla Nerano unique?

Spaghetti Alla Nerano stands out due to its rich combination of crispy fried zucchini and creamy parmesan cheese, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile.

Can I customize Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

How do I make Spaghetti Alla Nerano dairy-free?

Swap out parmesan cheese for a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without dairy.

What type of zucchini is best for this recipe?

Choose medium-sized zucchini; they have a better balance of moisture and flavor than larger varieties.

Is Spaghetti Alla Nerano suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti Alla Nerano recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flair. With its creamy sauce and crispy zucchini, it’s not only satisfying but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Give this delightful dish a try—your taste buds will thank you!