Name: Pasta alla Nerano
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into thin rounds); 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)

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The aroma of sizzling zucchini dances through the air as you prepare to dive into a bowl of Pasta alla Nerano, a dish that’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. Each bite bursts with creamy goodness, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of cheese and fresh vegetables in a way that will make your mouth water in anticipation.

Picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and everyone is raving about your cooking skills—little do they know it’s all thanks to this one simple yet fabulous recipe. Pasta alla Nerano is perfect for those cozy nights in or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Why You'll Love This Pasta alla Nerano

This incredible Pasta alla Nerano transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pasta alla Nerano:

Pasta: Use spaghetti or linguine for that perfect al dente bite; they hold the sauce beautifully.
Zucchini: Look for firm, fresh zucchinis; they’ll bring that wonderful texture and flavor to the dish.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: The king of cheeses! Grate generously for that authentic umami flavor.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste; don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Basil: Add some chopped basil at the end for a fragrant finish; it brightens up the dish magnificently.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pasta alla Nerano:

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing and slicing your zucchini into thin rounds. This allows them to cook quickly and evenly. Grab a large skillet and heat some olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

Add those lovely zucchini slices to the hot skillet and sauté until they are golden brown and tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the zucchini cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your pasta is cooked, reserve about half a cup of pasta water then drain it. Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with zucchini. Toss everything together while slowly adding grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

If it looks too dry, add some reserved pasta water gradually until you reach that creamy consistency we all crave!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your gorgeous creation onto plates, garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkling of cheese if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Now go ahead and serve this stunning Pasta alla Nerano at your next gathering; watch as friends become food fanatics over this creamy masterpiece!

You Must Know About Pasta alla Nerano

This showstopping Pasta alla Nerano delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing zucchini in olive oil until tender. While the zucchini is cooking, boil the pasta until al dente. Combine both in a skillet, adding cheese gradually to create a creamy sauce. Finish with fresh basil for a pop of flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap zucchini for eggplant or mushrooms for a different twist. Add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Customize your cheese choice to amp up the flavor profile!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess while avoiding dryness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pasta alla Nerano

This professional-quality Pasta alla Nerano relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

My first attempt at making Pasta alla Nerano was met with wide-eyed wonder from my friends; they devoured it like it was the last meal on Earth!

FAQs

What is Pasta alla Nerano?

Pasta alla Nerano is a traditional Italian dish originating from the charming village of Nerano, located on the Amalfi Coast. This delightful recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients, primarily zucchini, pasta, and cheese. The zucchini is sautéed until tender and combined with the pasta, creating a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to each strand. This dish exemplifies the beauty of Italian cuisine, showcasing how fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

How do you make Pasta alla Nerano?

To prepare Pasta alla Nerano, start by slicing fresh zucchini into thin rounds. Sauté the zucchini in olive oil until golden and tender. Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining. Combine the sautéed zucchini with the cooked pasta, adding grated cheese like Provolone or Parmesan for creaminess. Stir in reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor.

What pairs well with Pasta alla Nerano?

Pasta alla Nerano pairs beautifully with several side dishes and beverages. A light green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. For those who enjoy wine, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors without overpowering them. You can also serve crusty bread on the side for soaking up any leftover sauce, making it a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Can I make Pasta alla Nerano vegetarian?

Absolutely! Pasta alla Nerano is inherently vegetarian-friendly since its primary ingredients are vegetables and pasta. To keep it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you’re adding any liquids during cooking. Additionally, opt for vegetarian cheese alternatives if you’re avoiding animal products altogether. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal while adhering to your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, Pasta alla Nerano is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights fresh ingredients from the Amalfi Coast. By sautéing zucchini and combining it with pasta and cheese, you create a delightful meal bursting with flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a refreshing salad and wine, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Embrace the essence of Italian cooking by preparing Pasta alla Nerano at home; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!