Spaghetti alla Nerano Recipe

Experience the seductive flavors of Italy with a heavenly dish that will transport you to the sunny Amalfi Coast; Spaghetti alla Nerano. This divine recipe showcases the richness of Italian cuisine, combining simple ingredients to create a truly memorable gastronomic experience.

Nestled in southern Italy, the town of Nerano is renowned for its stunning coastal beauty and exceptional cuisine. Spaghetti alla Nerano, originating from this charming village, is a true masterpiece. The velvety strands of perfectly cooked spaghetti are combined with delicate zucchini and creamy provolone cheese, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.

The secret to the allure of Spaghetti alla Nerano lies in the gentle sautéing of zucchini, which releases an intoxicating aroma and enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable. The soft and mild provolone cheese adds a creamy touch, creating a luscious sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon zest, each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.

Prepare to be captivated by the divine delight of Spaghetti alla Nerano, and let its sumptuous flavors whisk you away to the picturesque Amalfi Coast.

A Brief History of Spaghetti alla Nerano

Spaghetti alla Nerano has a rich history that dates back to the small coastal town of Nerano in Italy. This dish originated in the 1950s when a local chef, Maria Grazia, created it as a tribute to the abundance of zucchini that grew in the region. The dish quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike, earning its place as a beloved specialty of Nerano. Today, Spaghetti alla Nerano is renowned worldwide for its unique combination of flavors and textures.

Spaghetti alla Nerano Recipe

Ingredients

To recreate the divine delight of Spaghetti alla Nerano, you will need the following ingredients:

• 400g spaghetti
• 400g zucchini
• 200g provolone cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon zest (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a harmony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Steps

1. Start by preparing the zucchini. Wash and trim the ends, then cut them into thin slices. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out any excess moisture.
2. After 10 minutes, pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel to remove the excess salt and moisture.
3. In a large pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and sauté gently until they are soft and slightly golden. This process should take approximately 10-12 minutes.
5. While the zucchini is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
6. Once the zucchini is cooked, remove the garlic cloves from the pan. Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the pan with the zucchini, along with a ladleful of the pasta cooking water.
7. Toss the spaghetti and zucchini together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
8. Grate the provolone cheese and add it to the pan, stirring until it has melted and formed a creamy sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Serve the Spaghetti alla Nerano hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Spaghetti alla Nerano

• Make sure to slice the zucchini thinly so that they cook evenly and become soft and tender.
• Patting the zucchini slices dry after sprinkling them with salt helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring a better texture and flavor.
• Be patient while sautéing the zucchini. Cooking them slowly over medium heat allows the natural sweetness of the vegetable to develop fully.
• Save a ladleful of the pasta cooking water to add to the sauce. This starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce and bind it to the pasta, resulting in a more cohesive dish.
• Using good quality cheeses, such as provolone and Parmesan, will enhance the flavors of the dish. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.

Variations of Spaghetti alla Nerano

While the traditional recipe for Spaghetti alla Nerano is a culinary masterpiece in itself, there are a few variations you can try to personalize the dish according to your preferences:

1. Seafood Spaghetti alla Nerano: Add some freshly cooked seafood, such as shrimp or clams, to the dish for a delightful seafood twist.
2. Vegetarian Spaghetti alla Nerano: If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the provolone cheese and replace it with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
3. Spicy Spaghetti alla Nerano: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed zucchini for a spicy kick.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your own unique version of Spaghetti alla Nerano.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a dish that shines on its own, but you can enhance its presentation and flavors with some simple serving suggestions and garnishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve the dish with a side of freshly baked garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the pasta just before serving for an extra touch of richness.
• Pair Spaghetti alla Nerano with a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Vermentino or a Chardonnay, to complement the flavors of the dish.

Remember, presentation is key, so take your time to plate the dish beautifully and create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

• While spaghetti is the traditional choice for Spaghetti alla Nerano, you can experiment with other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce well.

2. Can I substitute the zucchini with a different vegetable?

• The zucchini is an essential component of the dish, contributing to its unique flavors and textures. However, if you’re looking for a variation, you can try using yellow squash or eggplant instead.

3. Can I make Spaghetti alla Nerano ahead of time?

• Spaghetti alla Nerano is best enjoyed fresh, as the zucchini may become soggy if prepared too far in advance. However, you can prepare the zucchini and cheese sauce ahead of time, and cook the pasta just before serving. This way, you can quickly assemble the dish when you’re ready to enjoy it.

4. Can I freeze leftover Spaghetti alla Nerano?

• Unfortunately, the creamy sauce in Spaghetti alla Nerano does not freeze well, as it may separate and become grainy upon thawing. It is best to consume the dish fresh or refrigerate any leftovers for up to 2 days.

Enjoy!

Indulge in the divine delight of Spaghetti alla Nerano and let its seductive flavors transport you to the picturesque Amalfi Coast. This heavenly dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine, combining the simplicity of zucchini, provolone cheese, and pasta to create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or enjoy experimenting with variations, Spaghetti alla Nerano is a dish that will leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and embark on a culinary journey to the sunny shores of Nerano. Buon appetito!