Spaghetti alla Nerano is an effortless yet gourmet pasta dish featuring the delicate flavor of fried zucchini and the richness of parmesan cheese. The deep-fried zucchini brings out its natural sweetness, while fresh basil and a creamy parmesan sauce elevate the spaghetti into a beautifully light yet indulgent meal. This dish, originating from the coastal village of Nerano, is a testament to simple yet bold flavors in Italian cuisine. It’s perfect for an elegant dinner party or a cozy family meal. The best part? It comes together in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you still want to impress with something special.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil)
- 6 medium zucchini (thinly sliced, about 2 ½ pounds)
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 cups grated parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Heat sunflower oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Fry the zucchini until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
- Toss the fried zucchini with basil, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente and reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to a large skillet over medium-low heat and toss with the zucchini, gradually adding pasta water until the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in the grated parmesan, continuing to toss the pasta until the cheese has melted and the sauce is thick and smooth. Season with salt to taste and drizzle with more olive oil before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 1100 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Brief History of Spaghetti alla Nerano
The origins of Spaghetti alla Nerano date back to 1952, when it was first created by Maria Grazia, the owner of a small restaurant in Nerano. The town, nestled between cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea, has long been a favorite vacation spot for Italians. At her restaurant, Maria crafted this simple yet unforgettable dish that has become legendary over the decades.
What makes Spaghetti alla Nerano special is the combination of fried zucchini and cheese. While it may sound like a basic pairing, the magic happens in the cooking technique. The zucchini is deep-fried, which enhances its natural sweetness and lends a nutty flavor, while the cheese — ideally, provolone del Monaco or a mix of parmesan and other local varieties — adds richness and depth. Though the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, many chefs and home cooks have tried to replicate it with great success, using high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful approach to cooking.
Why Spaghetti alla Nerano is the Best
- Simplicity Meets Elegance: One of the key reasons Spaghetti alla Nerano is so beloved is its simplicity. It requires just a few ingredients — zucchini, pasta, basil, olive oil, and cheese — but the result is a dish bursting with flavor. This balance of lightness and richness makes it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner at home or an elegant gathering.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Despite its creamy texture, this dish remains relatively light. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which promotes good digestion. Olive oil, used for frying and drizzling, is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The basil provides a fresh herbaceous note, and if you use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, the dish can be made even more nutritious. Compared to heavier pasta dishes that rely on cream or butter, Spaghetti alla Nerano offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable to Dietary Preferences: While the original recipe features provolone cheese, Spaghetti alla Nerano can easily be adapted to suit different diets. For vegetarians, the dish is already a fantastic option, but it can also be made vegan by substituting the cheese with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, for those following a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the traditional spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. These small changes ensure that everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful meal.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Another great benefit of this dish is its speed. It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. The zucchini fries quickly, and while the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the remaining ingredients. This efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of flavor — the final dish tastes like it took hours to make, which is part of its charm.
Flavor and Texture: What Makes It Unique
The contrast between the fried zucchini and the creamy cheese sauce is what makes Spaghetti alla Nerano truly special. The zucchini slices, after being fried, have a slightly crispy exterior that gives way to a tender, sweet interior. When tossed with hot pasta and melted cheese, these zucchini slices transform into silky bites that meld seamlessly with the sauce.
The cheese, particularly if you can get your hands on provolone del Monaco, brings a tangy sharpness that cuts through the richness of the olive oil. Parmesan is a suitable alternative, offering a nutty, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the zucchini. The combination of textures — al dente pasta, crisp-tender zucchini, and creamy cheese — ensures that every bite is a little different but always delicious.
How to Get the Most Out of Spaghetti alla Nerano
For the best Spaghetti alla Nerano, focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here are a few tips to elevate the dish:
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Look for small to medium-sized zucchini that are firm to the touch and have a deep green color. These younger zucchinis have fewer seeds and less water content, making them ideal for frying and creating a sweeter, more concentrated flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on the Olive Oil: Olive oil plays a dual role in this recipe — it’s used for frying the zucchini and as a finishing drizzle to add richness to the sauce. Opt for extra virgin olive oil with a robust flavor, as it will contribute to the overall taste of the dish.
- Get Creative with Cheese: If you can’t find provolone del Monaco, don’t worry! Experiment with different cheeses like caciocavallo, pecorino, or even a mix of parmesan and provolone. Grate the cheese fresh from the block to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Perfect the Pasta Water: One of the key steps in this recipe is reserving the pasta water. The starchy water helps bind the sauce, making it creamy without needing additional fats like cream or butter. Be sure to add it gradually and toss the pasta vigorously with the zucchini and cheese for the perfect silky texture.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
Spaghetti alla Nerano is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and drinks. For a full Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it with a light side salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Grilled vegetables, like asparagus or eggplant, also complement the flavors of the dish.
As for drinks, this pasta is best paired with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of these wines balances the richness of the cheese and olive oil. If you prefer something sparkling, Prosecco is an excellent choice, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
The Emotional Connection to Spaghetti alla Nerano
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of homemade pasta. Spaghetti alla Nerano, with its golden-brown zucchini and creamy cheese sauce, feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a dish that speaks to the heart of Italian cooking — a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a commitment to simplicity. Each bite transports you to the sunny Amalfi Coast, where the sea breeze mingles with the scent of fried zucchini and freshly grated cheese.
Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it to guests, Spaghetti alla Nerano has the power to bring people together. Its humble ingredients and straightforward preparation make it approachable, but the flavors are sophisticated enough to impress. It’s a dish that reminds us that the best meals are often the simplest, as long as they’re made with care and love.
Conclusion
In a world where complex recipes with numerous ingredients often steal the spotlight, Spaghetti alla Nerano shines as a reminder that simplicity can be just as exciting. With its roots in the Italian countryside, this dish brings together fresh zucchini, quality cheese, and olive oil to create something truly spectacular. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, Spaghetti alla Nerano is a recipe that anyone can master — and everyone will enjoy.
