This Easy Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a creamy pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Made with fresh zucchini and a touch of cheese, it’s both tasty and simple to whip up!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how quickly this comes together. Just sauté the zucchini, mix it with the pasta, and enjoy. Perfect for a cozy night in! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I always use dried spaghetti for this dish, but you can swap it for other pasta types like linguine or bucatini if you prefer. Just make sure to keep the cooking time in check!
Zucchini: Fresh, young zucchinis are best for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great alternative. You can also use frozen zucchinis if you’re in a pinch, but fresh really shines here.
Cheese: Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano are classic choices. If you need a substitute, look for aged Grana Padano instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano, as it offers a similar flavor. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a mix of olive oil and a mild oil like grapeseed or canola. But I believe good olive oil adds a special touch!
How Do I Get Crispy Zucchini for My Pasta?
Getting zucchini crispy can be tricky, but it’s all about how you cook them. Here are some tips:
- Slice the zucchini thin – the thinner, the crisper! Aim for about 1/4-inch thick coins.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the zucchini. Use medium-high heat and avoid crowding the pan; this lets them fry instead of steam.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, and sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Consider using a non-stick or cast-iron skillet, which helps achieve that crispy texture!
With these tips, your zucchini will be deliciously crunchy and add great texture to the dish! Enjoy your cooking!
Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Easy Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- Salt, to taste
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into coins
- 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in about 30 minutes! It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later!
2. Cooking the Zucchini:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchini in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Fry them until golden and crispy on both sides, which will take about 3-4 minutes per side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Making the Garlic Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. If you want to add a little flavor, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it lightly for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. (Feel free to skip this step if you prefer a more traditional recipe without garlic!)
4. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with about half of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure the spaghetti is coated with the olive oil and garlic.
5. Adding the Cheeses:
Next, gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheese while continuing to toss the pasta. This will help create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.
6. Mixing in the Zucchini:
Gently fold in the crispy fried zucchini, but remember to reserve a few for garnishing later. This will add delicious flavor and texture to your dish!
7. Serving the Dish:
Now it’s time to plate! Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy zucchini slices on top. Add some fresh basil leaves for both flavor and a lovely presentation. If you want, sprinkle more grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top for an extra touch of yum!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting bowl of Spaghetti Alla Nerano, a lovely tribute to Italian cuisine as favored by Stanley Tucci. Buon appetito!
This recipe will surely bring the flavors of Italy into your kitchen, perfect for any pasta lover!
FAQ for Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Easy Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes, such as linguine or fettuccine. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Spaghetti Alla Nerano?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the zucchini, adjusting the cooking times as necessary to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheeses?
If you need a substitute, you can use aged Grana Padano in place of Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a mild cheese like Pecorino Sardo can replace Pecorino Romano. For a dairy-free version, consider using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative you enjoy!
This FAQ should help address common questions and concerns about making this delicious dish!
