Spaghetti alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano is an authentic Italian dish that captures the essence of simple yet refined flavors. Originating from the small town of Nerano on the Amalfi Coast, this recipe combines fried zucchini with parmesan cheese to create a velvety, creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. The deep-fried zucchini enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable while adding a nutty depth, making this dish both light and indulgent at the same time. This dish became internationally known after being featured on Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy, where it was described as “life-changing” and “unbelievable.” It’s the perfect recipe for anyone looking to bring a taste of Italy into their kitchen with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, Spaghetti alla Nerano will transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean with each bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • ½ quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil, about 2 cups)
  • 6 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 2 ½ pounds)
  • 1 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 cups grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Heat the sunflower oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the zucchini slices in batches until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes per batch). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, toss the fried zucchini with fresh basil, a pinch of kosher salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Before draining, reserve 2 cups of pasta water.
  4. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, toss the cooked spaghetti with the fried zucchini mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy.
  5. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue tossing until the pasta is well coated and the sauce is silky. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
  6. Finish with a final drizzle of olive oil and serve with extra grated parmesan on the side.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 1100 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origins of Spaghetti alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano was first created in 1952 by Maria Grazia, a restaurant owner in the town of Nerano, which is located in the Campania region of Italy. This picturesque seaside village is known for its stunning coastal views and fresh local ingredients, which play a major role in its traditional cuisine. The story goes that Maria Grazia wanted to craft a dish that showcased the sweet and delicate flavors of zucchini while also appealing to the locals and travelers who dined at her family-run restaurant.

Since then, Spaghetti alla Nerano has remained a beloved dish in southern Italy, particularly along the Amalfi Coast. Its popularity surged internationally when Stanley Tucci, an actor and food enthusiast, highlighted it on his television series, calling it one of the best pasta dishes he had ever eaten. This newfound recognition led food lovers worldwide to seek out the recipe, eager to bring a taste of Nerano into their own kitchens.

What Makes Spaghetti alla Nerano Special?

What sets Spaghetti alla Nerano apart from other pasta dishes is its unique preparation method and the careful selection of ingredients. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that use a heavy sauce, this recipe relies on the natural starches from the pasta and the oils from the fried zucchini to create a velvety, rich consistency.

One of the key techniques in making this dish is deep-frying the zucchini. This process enhances the vegetable’s natural sweetness and gives it a subtle, nutty flavor that infuses the entire dish. After frying, the zucchini is often left to rest, allowing it to absorb more flavor before being combined with the pasta.

Another crucial element is the cheese. The original recipe is believed to use provolone del Monaco, a semi-aged cheese that hails from the Sorrento region. However, since this cheese is not always easy to find outside of Italy, many chefs substitute it with parmesan, pecorino, or a blend of different cheeses to achieve the same creamy consistency.

Lastly, the dish is finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, both of which add a fragrant, herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce Without Cream

One of the most remarkable aspects of Spaghetti alla Nerano is its creamy texture, achieved without any added cream. This effect is accomplished by using the starchy pasta water, which helps bind the ingredients together.

To get the perfect consistency:

  • Always reserve some of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This water is rich in starch and will help emulsify the sauce.
  • Toss the pasta and zucchini over medium-low heat, gradually adding the reserved pasta water and cheese. Stirring continuously will allow the cheese to melt evenly and coat the pasta strands.
  • Avoid high heat when adding the cheese, as it may cause the sauce to become stringy rather than silky.

This technique is commonly used in other Italian pasta dishes like Cacio e Pepe and Pasta alla Gricia, where the natural starches in the pasta water play a vital role in creating a smooth and glossy sauce.

Customization and Variations

While the traditional Spaghetti alla Nerano recipe remains a favorite among purists, there are several ways to customize it based on personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

1. Adding Garlic or Onions

Although the classic recipe does not call for garlic or onions, some variations include sautéing finely chopped garlic or shallots before adding the pasta. This enhances the dish with a subtle savory note without overpowering the delicate zucchini flavor.

2. Using Different Cheeses

If provolone del Monaco is unavailable, other cheese options include:

  • Pecorino Romano – For a slightly sharper, saltier taste.
  • Caciocavallo – A cheese from southern Italy that melts beautifully.
  • Parmesan & Mozzarella Blend – A mix of parmesan for flavor and mozzarella for extra creaminess.

3. Making It Gluten-Free

For those following a gluten-free diet, Spaghetti alla Nerano can be easily adapted by using gluten-free spaghetti or another long pasta alternative like zucchini noodles (zoodles).

4. Adding More Vegetables

For a more colorful and nutrient-packed version, some cooks like to add roasted cherry tomatoes, yellow squash, or even sautéed mushrooms to the dish.

5. Vegan Adaptation

To make this dish vegan, swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative that melts well, such as cashew-based parmesan or nutritional yeast. The fried zucchini and basil will still provide plenty of flavor, making it a delicious plant-based option.

What to Serve with Spaghetti alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a satisfying dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with light and fresh side dishes. Some great options include:

  • Kale Caesar Salad – A crisp, garlicky salad that adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • Arugula Salad with Lemon and Parmesan – The peppery arugula complements the richness of the pasta.
  • Roasted Broccoli with Garlic – A simple yet delicious vegetable side dish.
  • Crusty Italian Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

For drinks, a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the delicate flavors of this dish. For those who prefer sparkling wine, Prosecco is another excellent choice.

Conclusion:

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a perfect example of how traditional Italian cooking focuses on simplicity, quality ingredients, and expert techniques to create dishes that stand the test of time. What started as a humble recipe from a small coastal town has now become a globally recognized dish, cherished for its creamy texture and rich flavors.

The secret to making this dish truly special lies in selecting the best ingredients fresh zucchini, high-quality olive oil, fragrant basil, and the right cheese. Whether you prepare it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Spaghetti alla Nerano is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and effortless elegance.

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