Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a wonderful dish made with simple ingredients like fresh zucchini, pasta, and cheese. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor!
This recipe is fun because you can enjoy it any night of the week. I love how quick it is to whip up, and it always impresses my family. Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti is perfect, but feel free to swap it with other pasta like linguine or fettuccine if that’s what you have. They’ll work just as well, so choose what you enjoy!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can use yellow squash as a substitute. It has a similar texture and will complement the flavors nicely.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: This cheese brings a rich flavor. If you can’t find it, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can substitute. Just remember, Pecorino is saltier, so adjust seasoning accordingly!
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This oil adds depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use regular olive oil. It’s not as robust, but still tasty!
How Do I Fry Zucchini to Get It Crispy?
Frying zucchini to a crispy finish is all about managing the heat and the timing. You want that golden crunch without sogginess. Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Heat the oil to medium. Too hot, and the zucchini might burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
- Cook zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even frying and crispiness.
- Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color.
- Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess oil immediately after frying. This keeps them crispy!
Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Zucchini:
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Flavor:
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Water for boiling pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of around 30 minutes. Just enough time for a lovely dinner that’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling happily, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (which means it’s firm to the bite). Save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later, then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Frying the Zucchini:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini slices to the skillet in batches (so they can fry nicely without crowding). Fry them until they are golden and crispy, which will take about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried zucchini to a paper towel-lined plate to cool and drain any excess oil.
3. Bringing It All Together:
Now, in the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Next, toss in your drained spaghetti, mixing it well with the garlic. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, stirring until the pasta is nicely coated and creamy.
4. Adding Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently fold in the crispy zucchini and the torn basil leaves, mixing everything together with a loving touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve your beautiful dish! Plate it up immediately while it’s hot, and if you like, you can sprinkle a bit more cheese and fresh basil on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy this delightful spaghetti inspired by Stanley Tucci!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional in this dish, you can use any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try a nutritional yeast sprinkle for a cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Can I Store Leftover Spaghetti Alla Nerano?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help revitalize the creamy sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers or spinach for more color and flavor. Just sauté them along with the zucchini until they’re tender before continuing with the recipe!
