Name: Spaghetti alla Nerano
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2.5 pounds zucchini (sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch thick rounds); 3 cups neutral oil (such as canola oil); 1 cup olive oil (divided); 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste); 1 pound dried spaghetti; 3 cloves garlic (finely minced or grated); 3 ounces Caciocavallo or Pecorino Romano cheese (finely grated); 1/4 cup small fresh basil leaves (for garnish); freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Spaghetti alla Nerano

What is Spaghetti alla Nerano?

If you're on the lookout for a delicious and comforting pasta dish, look no further than Spaghetti alla Nerano. Originating from the charming coastal town of Nerano in Italy, this delightful recipe features zucchini, which gets a crisp, flavorful fry before joining al dente spaghetti in a luscious sauce. Imagine the aroma of garlic melding with sautéed zucchini, enveloping your kitchen in warmth and inviting you to savor every bite.

This dish isn't just a feast for the senses; it’s also incredibly simple to whip up at home, even if you’re not a culinary expert. The secret lies in allowing the fried zucchini to break down into a creamy paste, enriching the pasta without any heavy cream. Based on a traditional recipe, Spaghetti alla Nerano showcases how a few fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly marvelous.

Curious about the origin of the dish? The combination of flavors can be traced back to the Campania region of Italy. For even more Italian-inspired dishes, explore the highlights of Italian cuisine. Ready to impress your friends at your next dinner party? Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step directions to mastering Spaghetti alla Nerano.

Ingredients for Spaghetti alla Nerano

Creating an authentic Spaghetti alla Nerano requires the right balance of fresh ingredients and flavorful herbs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Zucchini: About 2 ½ pounds (approximately 5 medium), sliced into ¼-inch rounds. This is the star of our dish, bringing in freshness and a tender texture.
Neutral Oil: 3 cups of something like canola oil for frying; you'll want a high smoke point.
Olive Oil: 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons, divided. A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor!
Kosher Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons, divided (adjust according to taste; if using table salt, use half).
Dried Spaghetti: A pound, as the base of your dish. Go for a high-quality brand for the best texture.
Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced or grated for that aromatic kick.
Cheese: 3 ounces of Caciocavallo or Pecorino Romano, finely grated, adding a savory richness.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper to taste; it’s a simple detail that can elevate your dish.
Basil: ¼ cup of small fresh leaves for that finishing touch.

These ingredients combine to create a Spaghetti alla Nerano that’s both comforting and impressive. For tips on where to source quality ingredients, check out Serious Eats for some helpful insights!

Preparing Spaghetti alla Nerano

Making Spaghetti alla Nerano at home is an exciting culinary adventure that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. The dish, celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness, is largely defined by its vibrant zucchini and cheesy goodness. Let's break down how to prepare this delightful dish step by step.

Fry the Zucchini

The foundation of Spaghetti alla Nerano lies in the perfectly fried zucchini. Start by heating neutral oil and 1 cup of olive oil in a large pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This combination of oils not only provides the right flavor but also ensures crispiness.

Tip: Fry in batches! Place about a third of your sliced zucchini into the hot oil, frying until they turn light golden brown — this should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Remember to stir them frequently to prevent sticking. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with kosher salt. Repeat this process until all your zucchini is perfectly fried. If you're not ready to finish the dish right away, cooled and refrigerated zucchini can wait for up to a day!

Cook the Spaghetti

Once your zucchini is ready, it’s time to cook the spaghetti. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding the remaining salt to it. Once boiling, toss in your spaghetti. Here’s a pro tip: cook the pasta until it's soft on the outside but still undercooked in the center—about 3 minutes shy of the package instructions.

Important Note: Always reserve some cooking water for the sauce; you'll need about 2 cups for later.

Combine Zucchini, Garlic, and Pasta

In a large skillet, pour in the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it until shimmering. Add your finely minced garlic and cook it until fragrant (about a minute should do!). Next, add half of your fried zucchini and mash it into the garlic to create a flavorful paste.

Bringing the dish together: Add the par-cooked spaghetti and 1 ¼ cups of your reserved pasta water, alongside a teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir vigorously for about 3 to 5 minutes until it all emulsifies beautifully. If you notice the sauce getting thick too quickly, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed.

Finish the Dish with Cheese

Finally, remove the skillet from heat and it’s time for the pièce de résistance: cheese! Add the finely grated Caciocavallo or Pecorino Romano and stir quickly to combine everything.

Final Touch: Adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking; it should coat the pasta nicely without being runny. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper before serving. Garnish with the remaining fried zucchini and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for that final burst of flavor and color!

Spaghetti alla Nerano is now ready to impress! With these steps, you’ve turned simple ingredients into a dish that sings with flavor and charm. For more inspiration, check out this guide on Italian cooking techniques for elevating your culinary skills further. Enjoy, and happy cooking!

Variations on Spaghetti alla Nerano

Adding proteins

To elevate your Spaghetti alla Nerano, consider incorporating proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp can add a delightful twist while making the dish more filling. If you’re in the mood for something lean, turkey bacon can lend a smoky flavor without overpowering the fresh zucchini. For a hearty option, diced beef adds a satisfying richness. Simply sauté these proteins with the garlic before mixing in the pasta, and you'll create a heart-warming meal suitable for any weeknight!

Switching up the cheese

While the traditional recipe calls for Caciocavallo or Pecorino Romano, feel free to play around with cheeses! Fresh mozzarella can add creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crispy zucchini. If you're seeking something sharper, aged Parmesan can intensify the flavor profile. Experimenting with cheese not only gives you a unique touch but is perfect for tailoring the dish to your taste. Each variation will bring a different essence to your beloved Spaghetti alla Nerano.

For more tips on ingredient swaps, check out this resource from Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Spaghetti alla Nerano

Cooking Spaghetti alla Nerano is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you'll elevate your dish even further.

Choosing Zucchini: Select firm, bright green zucchinis for the best flavor. Young zucchinis will yield a sweeter result.
Frying Techniques: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This helps achieve that perfectly crispy texture. Let the fried zucchini rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Pasta Perfection: Make sure to undercook your spaghetti slightly; the residual heat will finish cooking it while combining with the sauce.
Cheese Variations: If you can't find Caciocavallo, Pecorino Romano works well too. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances flavor.

For more expert cooking tips, check out the resources at Serious Eats and New York Times Cooking. Enjoy your pasta journey!

Serving Suggestions for Spaghetti alla Nerano

When you serve Spaghetti alla Nerano, you're unleashing a flavor-packed experience that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Salads: Opt for a light arugula or spinach salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to complement the rich zucchini flavors.
Breads: A crusty Italian bread or buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Cheese Options: Sprinkle extra Caciocavallo or Pecorino Romano cheese on top for an added cheesy indulgence.
Drinks: Pair your dish with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or lime, or a light herbal tea for a non-alcoholic option.

With these thoughtful pairings, your Spaghetti alla Nerano will shine even brighter at the dinner table! For more inspiration, check out Food & Wine or Serious Eats for additional side ideas.

Time details for Spaghetti alla Nerano

Preparation time

To get your Spaghetti alla Nerano started, you'll need about 20 minutes to prepare all your fresh ingredients. This includes slicing the zucchini and mincing the garlic—simple tasks that set the stage for a delicious meal.

Cooking time

Once you're ready to cook, the actual process will take approximately 30 minutes. This includes frying the zucchini and boiling the pasta, bringing everything together in less than half an hour.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish. This means you can go from kitchen to table in under an hour, making it a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends!

Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Spaghetti alla Nerano is an inviting recipe that’s both flavorful and straightforward. For more pasta inspiration, check out this guide to Italian pasta types to elevate your next meal!

Nutritional Information for Spaghetti alla Nerano

Calories

One serving of Spaghetti alla Nerano typically contains around 600 calories. This makes it a hearty meal that's perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, especially on a busy day when you need a little extra fuel.

Carbohydrates

Each serving boasts approximately 75 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the pasta and zucchini. Carbs are essential for energy, and the healthy fats from olive oil and cheese provide lasting sustenance without the crash!

Protein

In terms of protein, one serving delivers about 15 grams. While it’s not a primary protein source, the addition of cheese enhances the protein content, making it a balanced option that can support your nutritional needs throughout the day.

For more detailed nutritional insights, you can reference resources like NutritionData. Enjoy delighting your taste buds while also being mindful of your dietary choices!

FAQs about Spaghetti alla Nerano

Can I make Spaghetti alla Nerano vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily transform Spaghetti alla Nerano into a vegetarian dish by omitting the cheese or using a vegetarian-friendly cheese substitute. Another delicious alternative is to add roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or eggplant, to enhance the flavor and texture. This way, you still get a hearty, satisfying meal that aligns with your dietary preferences.

What can I substitute for Caciocavallo cheese?

If you can't find Caciocavallo cheese, don't worry! Pecorino Romano works wonderfully as a substitute, offering a similar sharpness and depth of flavor. For a non-dairy option, try a cashew-based cheese or nutritional yeast sprinkled on top—both will add a tasty twist to your Spaghetti alla Nerano while keeping it delicious!

How do I store leftovers of Spaghetti alla Nerano?

To keep your Spaghetti alla Nerano fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce and noodles. This ensures that your dish remains creamy and flavorful! For more tips on pasta storage, check out this resource from The Kitchn.

Conclusion on Spaghetti alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano embodies the essence of comfort food with its rich flavors and unique twist on classic pasta dishes. The simple yet indulgent ingredients create a harmonious blend that’s perfect for cozy nights or dinner parties. Give this dish a try, and let its Italian charm captivate your taste buds!