Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Name: Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 6 medium zucchini, thinly sliced; 1 cup chopped fresh basil; 2 cups grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Sunflower or vegetable oil for frying

Published: July 9, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Rich Flavor: The combination of fried zucchini and parmesan creates a rich and satisfying taste profile.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy this pasta as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs well with many options.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and zucchini ensures vibrant flavors and healthy nutrition.
Restaurant Quality at Home: With simple steps and ingredients, you can create gourmet dining experiences without leaving your home.

Tools and Preparation

To make Spaghetti Alla Nerano successfully, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing fried zucchini from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.
Large skillet: Provides ample space to combine pasta with zucchini and sauce for even distribution.

Ingredients

For the Frying

½ quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil (2 cups))
6 medium zucchini (thinly sliced (about 2 1/2 pounds))

For the Sauce

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 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: Combine Zucchini Mixture

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Zucchini

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

Step 6: Add Parmesan

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Continue tossing until all pasta is coated in cheese and zucchini mixture. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving. Offer more parmesan on the side for those who love extra flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti Alla Nerano, bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

Crusty Italian Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty Italian bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Garlic Bread: A perfect complement, garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs beautifully with the pasta.

Add a Salad

Caprese Salad: This classic salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a refreshing contrast to the rich spaghetti.
Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite and balances the creaminess of the dish.

Garnish Creatively

Extra Parmesan: Offer additional grated parmesan on the side for those who love a cheesy finish.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh basil for an aromatic touch and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Perfecting Spaghetti alla Nerano is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for an unforgettable pasta dish.

Use Fresh Zucchini: Opt for fresh, firm zucchini for frying. This ensures they become crispy and flavorful when cooked.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at the right temperature when frying zucchini; too hot can burn them, while too cold makes them soggy.
Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. It’s essential for creating the creamy sauce consistency.
Toss Gently: When combining pasta with zucchini and cheese, toss gently to ensure even coating without breaking the pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your Spaghetti alla Nerano with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors.

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant grilled to perfection add vibrant colors and smoky flavors.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs offer a hearty addition that pairs well with spaghetti.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Lentil Salad: A protein-rich lentil salad dressed in vinaigrette adds earthiness and complements the richness of the pasta.
Vegetable Soup: A light vegetable soup can start off your meal nicely, providing warmth and comfort before indulging in spaghetti.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Alla Nerano, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s taste and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the salt: Not seasoning your zucchini while frying can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt to enhance the overall taste.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking spaghetti beyond al dente can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and test for doneness a minute before the time is up.
Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted or stale basil will diminish the flavor of your dish. Always use fresh basil for optimal taste.
Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated parmesan often contains additives that affect melting. Grate fresh parmesan for a creamier sauce.
Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta cooking liquid can prevent achieving the desired creamy consistency. Always reserve some before draining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warmed through.
Microwave: Use in short intervals, stirring between heats until hot.
Stovetop: Heat with a splash of reserved pasta water over medium-low heat, stirring until creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Spaghetti Alla Nerano:

What is Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a creamy Italian pasta dish made with fried zucchini and parmesan cheese, offering rich flavors in each bite.

Can I use other vegetables in Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make Spaghetti Alla Nerano vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if desired.

What dishes pair well with Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread, providing a balanced meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or using different types of cheese according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time!

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