There’s a certain delight in the kitchen that comes alive when you’re surrounded by fresh ingredients, and that’s precisely how I felt the day I stumbled upon an abundance of vibrant zucchinis at the market. With their glossy skins and tender hearts, they called out to me, urging me to create something delicious! Enter Spaghetti alla Nerano—a dish that perfectly marries the freshness of seasonal veggies with the indulgence of Pecorino Romano cheese.
As the zucchini gently sizzles in the pan, releasing its sweet essence, your senses will hint at the rich flavors that await. This Italian classic is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few effortless steps, you can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. So grab your apron and join me as we whip up this creamy, comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your table!
Why will you love Spaghetti alla Nerano?
Comforting and creamy: This dish embodies the warmth of Italian home cooking, with a silky sauce that wraps around each strand of spaghetti.
Fresh zucchini: A generous helping of sautéed zucchini adds both flavor and nutrition, ensuring you enjoy your veggies.
Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Versatile substitutions: Feel free to play around with different cheeses or pasta types, allowing you to create your own twist on a classic.
Impress your guests: You’ll serve a dish that not only looks stunning but also tastes divine—perfect for impressing friends at your next gathering!
Seasonal goodness: Use whatever fresh produce is available to you, highlighting the best of what each season has to offer.
Spaghetti alla Nerano Ingredients
• Gather these essentials for a delicious meal.
For the Pasta
- Spaghetti – The heart of this dish, providing the perfect base for a creamy sauce.
For the Zucchini
- Zucchini – Adds a touch of sweetness and vegetable goodness; try eggplant for a flavor twist.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Brings richness and depth; opt for extra virgin for the best flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances the aroma and taste; mince it to distribute the flavors evenly.
For the Seasoning
- Fresh Basil – Adds a burst of freshness; parsley can work in a pinch if you’re out of basil.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese – Gives a sharp, creamy richness; if you prefer a milder taste, use Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; season to your liking.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Spaghetti alla Nerano into a dish your family will rave about!
How to Make Spaghetti alla Nerano
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Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being cautious not to let it brown.
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Add the Zucchini: Toss in the zucchini rounds, stirring frequently. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and tender but still hold some shape.
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Combine Spaghetti and Zucchini: Add the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the zucchini. Pour in the reserved pasta water, mixing everything together until a creamy sauce forms—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and chopped fresh basil, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a delightful coating for the spaghetti.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the Spaghetti alla Nerano immediately, garnishing with extra basil and a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano cheese for that finishing touch.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spaghetti alla Nerano
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Perfect Pasta Water: Always reserve pasta water before draining; it’s crucial for achieving the creamy sauce texture in your Spaghetti alla Nerano.
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Zucchini Timing: Sauté zucchini until golden and tender but avoid overcooking them. This maintains their flavor and delightful texture, preventing mushiness.
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Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; while Pecorino Romano is traditional, trying Parmigiano-Reggiano offers a milder alternative.
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Seasonal Veggies: Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for the best flavor. When zucchini isn’t in season, substituting with eggplant works beautifully!
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Serving Fresh: Serve the dish promptly after making it; this ensures that the creamy sauce and colorful zucchini remain vibrant and appealing.
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Add a Twist: For added flavor and a pop of color, toss in some cherry tomatoes before serving, enhancing both taste and visual appeal!
Storage Tips for Spaghetti alla Nerano
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep your Spaghetti alla Nerano fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months; just be sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
Note on Zucchini: To keep the zucchini’s delightful texture, you can reheat at a lower temperature to avoid overcooking during the reheating process.
Spaghetti alla Nerano Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan spin.
Enjoy the cheesy flavor without the dairy, making it suitable for everyone’s palate! -
Pasta Alternatives: Try using gluten-free pasta or whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist.
Each option offers a unique texture while still delivering the creamy goodness of the sauce. -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for an aromatic boost.
The addition of these herbs can elevate the dish, adding a delightful fragrance as you cook. -
Heat it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or fresh chopped chili for a lively kick.
This spice might just become your secret weapon in enhancing the flavors of this classic! -
Summery Addition: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness and color.
Their sweetness complements the zucchini beautifully, making every bite a refreshing delight! -
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving.
This not only adds a delightful crunch but also a layer of nutty flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the creaminess. -
Meat Option: For a non-vegetarian variation, add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken.
This will not only enhance protein content but also introduce a savory depth that pairs splendidly with the creamy sauce. -
Fun Twist: Try spiralizing zucchini to create a veggie noodle version for a low-carb alternative.
This clever swap keeps the essence of the dish while adding a wholesome twist.
Make Ahead Options
Spaghetti alla Nerano is a fantastic dish for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the zucchini and sauté it in advance—up to 3 days ahead—and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, simply cook the spaghetti as directed, then combine it with the prepped zucchini and reserved pasta water as you finish the dish. This way, you retain the vibrant flavor and texture without any hassle. Just remember to keep the zucchini pieces slightly undercooked, so they hold up beautifully when mixed in with the pasta. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort any night of the week!
What to Serve with Spaghetti alla Nerano?
Transform your delightful pasta dish into an unforgettable meal that balances flavors, textures, and aromas.
- Light Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette is refreshing, offering a tangy contrast to the creamy spaghetti.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Grilled Veggies: Grilled asparagus or bell peppers complement the zucchini while adding a vibrant and smoky flavor to your plate.
- Chilled Pinot Grigio: This refreshing white wine enhances the dish’s flavors without overwhelming the palate, making for a perfect pairing.
- Tiramisu: End your Italian feast on a sweet note with this classic dessert, delighting your guests with its coffee-infused layers of creaminess.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and tangy roasted tomatoes bring an extra burst of flavor to your pasta, melding beautifully with the zucchini and cheese.
- Fried Zucchini Chips: For a fun twist, serve crispy zucchini chips on the side for delightful crunch and an added veggie boost.
Each side perfectly complements Spaghetti alla Nerano, enhancing your dining experience with a symphony of tastes!
Spaghetti alla Nerano Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right zucchini for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for firm, unblemished specimens with a vibrant green color. Avoid those with dark spots or a wrinkled appearance, as these might be overripe. I recommend medium-sized zucchinis, as they tend to have a good balance of sweetness and flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Spaghetti alla Nerano?
Very good question! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to allow the pasta to cool before sealing. When you reheat, do so gently to preserve the zucchini’s texture, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help restore that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Spaghetti alla Nerano?
Of course! To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, making sure it cools completely. You can safely freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat using low heat on the stovetop, adding a little bit of reserved pasta water or olive oil for creaminess.
What if my zucchini becomes mushy during cooking?
Don’t worry; everyone has been there! If your zucchini turns mushy, it may have been overcooked. For next time, sauté the zucchini until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes, keeping a closer eye on them. You want them to be soft yet still holding their shape, as they add both flavor and texture to the dish.
Is Spaghetti alla Nerano suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! This delightful dish is vegetarian-friendly since it features seasonal vegetables like zucchini, along with cheese. However, if you’re accommodating a vegan diet, you can replace the Pecorino Romano cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and reap the benefits of a creamy, flavorful meal without any animal products.
Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?
The more the merrier! While traditional Spaghetti alla Nerano uses spaghetti, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or bucatini. Each type of pasta brings a unique texture, making it a fun way to twist this classic dish into your own creation!
Spaghetti alla Nerano: A Creamy Zucchini Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook a large pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add zucchini rounds to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender.
- Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with zucchini and pour in reserved pasta water. Mix until a creamy sauce forms (2-3 minutes).
- Stir in grated Pecorino Romano cheese, chopped fresh basil, and season with salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano cheese.