As I scrolled through my favorite travel photos, one snapshot stood out—a vibrant platter of Spaghetti Alla Nerano, perfectly showcasing its golden-fried zucchini nestled in a creamy, enchanting cheese sauce. This dish is a true gem from Naples, blending simplicity with bold Mediterranean flavors. What I love most is how effortlessly it transitions from a busy weeknight dinner to a delightful gathering with friends, proving that homemade meals can be both quick and indulgent. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone at your table. Are you ready to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen?

Why is Spaghetti Alla Nerano so special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This quick recipe features just a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
Rich, Creamy Delight: The combination of provolone and parmesan creates a velvety cheese sauce that perfectly complements the crispy zucchini.
Versatile Cooking: Love experimenting with flavors? Try variations like herb-infused zucchini or spicy kick for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish evokes warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Offering a wholesome twist, this pasta dish is a great option for vegetarians, ensuring everyone at the table can indulge in its deliciousness.

Spaghetti Alla Nerano Ingredients

For the Zucchini
• Zucchini – Choose fresh, young zucchini for the sweetest flavor and best texture.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Provolone del Monaco – Aged varieties provide depth and a smooth melting quality in the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Use grated parmesan for easy mixing into the cheese sauce and extra flavor.

For Frying
• Olive Oil – High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds rich Mediterranean flavor and is perfect for frying.
• Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of zucchini and balances the richness of the cheese.

For Garnish
• Basil Leaves – Fresh basil not only looks beautiful but adds an aromatic burst of flavor to your dish.

Embrace the magic of Spaghetti Alla Nerano with these carefully selected ingredients, and get ready to create a warm, comforting meal that transports you straight to sunny Italy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Step 1: Prep Zucchini
Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly under cold water, then slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they crisp up beautifully when fried. This preparation is essential for achieving that perfect golden crunch in your Spaghetti Alla Nerano.

Step 2: Fry Zucchini
Heat about 1/4 inch of high-quality extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, aiming for around 350°F. Fry the zucchini slices in small batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the fried zucchini to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, keeping them crisp for your pasta dish.

Step 3: Cook Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Just before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside while preparing the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, gently melt together the provolone and grated parmesan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. As the cheeses melt, they will form a creamy, smooth sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach a lovely drizzle consistency, perfect for coating the spaghetti and zucchini.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Carefully fold the crispy zucchini into the cheese sauce, ensuring each slice is coated in the creamy goodness. Then, add the drained spaghetti to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is beautifully enveloped in the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Serve your Spaghetti Alla Nerano immediately, garnishing with freshly torn basil leaves, extra grated parmesan, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added flavor. The combination of tender spaghetti, rich cheese sauce, and crispy zucchini creates a delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Spaghetti Alla Nerano: Customization Ideas

Get creative in the kitchen with delightful twists that enhance the authentic flavor of this dish.

Zucchini Ribbons: Use a vegetable peeler to make beautiful ribbons for a delicate presentation. These thin strips will soak in the cheese sauce, delivering a tender bite.
Herb-Infused Zucchini: Fry thin slices with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant touch. The aroma of herbs elevates the dish to a whole new level, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes during frying to bring some heat. This twist will surprise your taste buds and give you a cozy warmth that complements the creamy cheese sauce.
Grilled Option: Grill zucchini slices instead of frying for a smoky depth while keeping that satisfying crunch. A charred flavor makes this dish deliciously unique, perfect for summer meals.
Cheese Variations: Try mixing in a bit of gorgonzola or feta for a tangy twist. The added sharpness from these cheeses creates a complex flavor profile that dances on your palate.
Vegan-Friendly: Swap dairy cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, vegan alternative. It’s a wonderful way to cater to a dairy-free diet without sacrificing flavor.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, toss in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp with the pasta and zucchini. It transforms the dish into an energizing feast, perfect for satisfying big appetites.

Each of these variations invites you to embrace your culinary creativity and adjust the flavors to your preference. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try serving this alongside a Million Dollar Spaghetti to create a multi-course Italian feast!

What to Serve with Spaghetti Alla Nerano?

Create a delightful Italian feast that leaves your guests smiling and satisfied.

Garlicky Breadsticks: Crunchy and flavorful, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the rich cheese sauce, complementing every bite.
Fresh Caprese Salad: The bright, juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella balance the richness of the pasta dish, adding refreshing contrast.
Grilled Mediterranean Vegetables: Charred flavors from zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant offer a harmonious, texture-rich companion to the creamy spaghetti.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery greens paired with a tangy dressing add a light, vibrant touch that uplifts the entire meal.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Falanghina or Greco di Tufo enhances the flavors, making for a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
Tiramisu for Dessert: Indulge your sweet tooth with this creamy coffee-flavored dessert that offers a smooth ending to a hearty meal.

Make Ahead Options

Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can slice and pat dry the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re ready to fry for maximum crispiness. Additionally, the cheese sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply reheat it gently before combining with the spaghetti. When it’s time to serve, cook the spaghetti fresh for the best texture, then fold in the crispy zucchini and warm cheese sauce. This method allows you to enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort, bringing that rich Italian flavor into your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Perfect Zucchini Slices: Cut zucchini into uniform thin rounds for even cooking; thicker slices may become soggy and lose crispiness.
Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F, ensuring the zucchini fries perfectly without absorbing too much oil.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry zucchini in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than frying for that ideal crunch.
Adjust Cheese Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency for your Spaghetti Alla Nerano.
Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation; reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with olive oil to revive the texture.

How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti Alla Nerano

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little olive oil to restore texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of Spaghetti Alla Nerano in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop with added olive oil. Avoid microwaving to maintain the dish’s crispiness.

Storage Tip: Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing in containers to prevent condensation and sogginess when stored.

Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right zucchini for Spaghetti Alla Nerano?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for fresh, young zucchini that is firm and free of blemishes. Look for a vibrant, deep green skin without dark spots, as these may indicate overripeness. Smaller zucchini typically have a sweeter flavor and better texture for frying.

What’s the best way to store leftover Spaghetti Alla Nerano?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the spaghetti in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. This method keeps the zucchini crisp while warming the dish thoroughly—avoid using the microwave, as it may make the zucchini soggy.

Can I freeze Spaghetti Alla Nerano?
Certainly! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm it on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil to revive that delightful texture.

What’s the best way to maintain the crispiness of the zucchini during cooking?
Very! One key to success is to ensure the zucchini slices are thoroughly dried before frying. After slicing, pat them with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Additionally, fry them in small batches and monitor the oil temperature, keeping it at about 350°F. This prevents them from steaming and helps achieve that perfect golden crisp.

Is Spaghetti Alla Nerano suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect option for those who prefer to avoid meat. The combination of zucchini and rich cheese sauce not only caters to vegetarian diets but comes packed with flavor, ensuring that everyone can indulge in this delightful dish.

What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If your cheese sauce thickens more than you’d like, don’t worry! Gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water, which contains starch to help smooth out the sauce. Add a little at a time until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This method not only adjusts the thickness but also enriches the flavor of your Spaghetti Alla Nerano.