This yummy Spaghetti Alla Nerano features simple ingredients like zucchini, cheese, and garlic, all coming together for a delightful pasta dish. It’s fresh, creamy, and totally comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Standard spaghetti works great here, but you could swap it for linguine or any pasta you love. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta shape you choose.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are key for flavor and texture. If you can’t find zucchini, you can use summer squash or even eggplant as a tasty alternative!
Cheese: Provolone del Monaco gives a special taste, but a mix of provolone and Parmesan works well too. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using aged cheddar or Pecorino Romano instead.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. In a pinch, dried basil can work, but fresh is best. You can also use parsley for a different twist if you want.
How Do You Get the Zucchini Perfectly Golden?
The zucchini needs to be crispy and golden to give great flavor to the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, allowing them to get a nice brown color without burning.
- Once done, place the zucchini on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Taking this step seriously makes a world of difference in your final dish, so don’t rush it!
Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450 g) spaghetti
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Provolone del Monaco cheese (or a mix of provolone and Parmesan if unavailable)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, 10-15 minutes cooking, and then just a few minutes to serve it up. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Zucchini:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced zucchini in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if you have a lot of zucchini, cook it in batches. Fry the zucchini until it’s golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the zucchini from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy!
2. Cooking the Garlic:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. The lovely aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen!
3. Cooking the Pasta:
While you’re preparing the sauce, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it. This water will be used later to help create a creamy sauce.
4. Combining Pasta and Zucchini:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with garlic and olive oil. Toss everything well to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the flavorful oil.
5. Creating the Cheesy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and re-add the sautéed zucchini to the skillet. Gradually sprinkle in the grated cheese, tossing continuously to combine everything. This is where the magic happens! As the cheese begins to melt, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This will help create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti.
6. Seasoning:
Give your dish a taste and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. This step ensures your pasta is bursting with flavor!
7. Serving:
To serve, plate the pasta generously and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a little extra grated cheese on top for that perfect finish. Enjoy every bite of your rich, creamy, and comforting Spaghetti Alla Nerano—an Italian classic that will surely impress!
FAQ for Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Can I Substitute Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftover Spaghetti Alla Nerano in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and warm it in the microwave or on the stove.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make it vegetarian, just omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. For a vegan version, you can also use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Besides zucchini, you can try using eggplant, bell peppers, or even spinach for an extra nutritional boost. Just make sure to sauté them until they’re tender before adding to the pasta.
