Name: Spaghetti Alla Nerano: 8 Steps to Italian Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 5 garlic cloves (peeled); 3-5 fresh zucchini (depending on size); 1/2 lb spaghetti (or 1 lb for more servings); 1 cup pecorino romano (+ more for serving); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (+ more for serving); sea salt (to taste); freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

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?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti is a delightful dish straight from the Amalfi Coast. This recipe combines golden fried zucchini, sharp pecorino romano, and fresh basil with perfectly al dente spaghetti, creating a burst of flavors that transport you to Italy. If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s also vegetarian, this dish is a must-try. Let’s dive into the world of Italian cuisine and make this iconic pasta together!

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

This spaghetti recipe is not only delicious but also comes with several benefits:

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Uses fresh, healthy ingredients like zucchini and basil.
Vegetarian-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
Offers a creamy texture without heavy cream, thanks to the pecorino romano.
Can be customized with different toppings and variations.
Delivers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine right at home.

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

Gather these items:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves (peeled)
3-5 fresh zucchini (depending on size)
1/2 lb spaghetti (or 1 lb for more servings)
1 cup pecorino romano (+ more for serving)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (+ more for serving)
sea salt (to taste)
freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim zucchini ends and cut into a mix of sizes and shapes such as rounds, half-moons, and chunks. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-low. Add garlic cloves and one piece of zucchini to the pan.
Step 2: Once the zucchini is bubbling, you’re ready to start frying the rest in batches. Remove and discard the garlic cloves before they get burnt.
Step 3: Add zucchini in small batches. As pieces begin to soften, transfer them to a bowl and keep adding more raw zucchini to the pan.
Step 4: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in boiling salted water to al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
Step 5: Transfer a portion of the cooked zucchini to another bowl and blend with an immersion blender until mostly blended but not a full puree.
Step 6: Return blended zucchini back to the skillet with leftover oil over low heat. Toss to cook briefly, then add in the rest of the fried zucchini.
Step 7: Using tongs, transfer al dente spaghetti directly to the skillet along with torn basil leaves, and a ladle of pasta water. Toss to combine.
Step 8: Turn off the heat and add 1 cup pecorino with another splash of pasta water. Toss vigorously to create a creamy sauce.
Step 9: Serve with more pecorino, fresh basil, and black pepper if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh zucchini for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the garlic to your taste; it can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
For a gluten-free option, substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free spaghetti.
Ensure you reserve enough pasta water to create a creamy sauce.

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

Here are some serving ideas:

Top with extra pecorino romano and fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti?

The key is to cook the zucchini until golden and tender while maintaining some texture. This adds depth to the dish. Using the right amount of pasta water helps achieve a creamy consistency without cream.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the zucchini and cook the spaghetti ahead of time. Just combine them when you are ready to serve to keep the pasta al dente and fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti?

Be careful not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying zucchini to ensure even cooking.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add grilled shrimp or chicken for protein.
Substitute zucchini with other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant.
Incorporate crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different cheeses like parmesan or goat cheese for a unique flavor.

Spaghetti Alla Nerano: 8 Steps to Italian Delight - ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti - main visual representation

Spaghetti Alla Nerano: 8 Steps to Italian Delight - ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=spaghetti - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars. If you’re interested in vegetarian options, consider our vegan dulce de leche recipe for a sweet treat. You can also explore green bean casserole for a festive side dish.

For more information on the health benefits of zucchini, you can refer to this Healthline article.