That Zucchini Spaghetti Stanley Tucci Loves (Spaghetti alla Nerano)

Posted by Fitzroy Neville October 21, 2023
That Zucchini Spaghetti Stanley Tucci Loves (Spaghetti alla Nerano)

Background and History:

Spaghetti alla Nerano is an Italian pasta dish that hails from the picturesque village of Nerano on the Amalfi Coast. This recipe pays homage to the abundance of zucchinis in the region and combines them with simple yet flavorful ingredients. The dish is characterized by its creamy, silky sauce made from fried zucchini and grated Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
  • 2 medium-sized zucchinis, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (40g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Grated Pecorino Romano cheese (for serving)

Serves: 2

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

  • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
  • In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and cook until they turn golden brown and become tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  • Combine the cooked spaghetti with the fried zucchini in the skillet. Add a small amount of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a silky sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta with the zucchini and oil mixture.
  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you desire a bit of heat).
  • Garnish with torn basil leaves and serve hot. Offer grated Pecorino Romano cheese at the table for additional flavor.

Nutrition Facts: (Per serving)

  • Calories: 630
  • Total Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 57g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 15g

Notes:

  • Spaghetti alla Nerano is a versatile dish, and you can customize it by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, or fresh mint for additional flavor.
  • This recipe celebrates the simplicity of Italian cooking; using high-quality, fresh ingredients is key to its success.

Allergy Warning:

  • Ensure the quality and source of your cheese, especially if you have allergies to dairy products. Adjust or omit ingredients accordingly if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
Fitzroy Neville
Latest posts by Fitzroy Neville (see all)
Tags:
Fitzroy Neville
View More Posts
Fitzroy Neville, the culinary maestro behind this site, boasts the impressive title of Cooking Prodigy. With a natural flair for the culinary arts, Fitzroy brings innovation and expertise to the world of pet cuisine. His site is a haven for pet owners seeking imaginative and nutritious recipes to delight their furry companions. Fitzroy's passion for transforming pet meals into culinary experiences is evident in the creative and delectable content he shares. For those looking to elevate their pets' dining experience, Fitzroy Neville's site is a testament to the artistry and skill of a true cooking prodigy dedicated to pampering our four-legged friends.