Go Back
+ servings
Spaghetti alla Nerano

Delicious Spaghetti alla Nerano: Creamy Zucchini Comfort Food

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a comforting vegetarian dish with a creamy zucchini sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Spaghetti The perfect base for binding all the delicious flavors together.
For the Sauce
  • 2 medium Zucchini Adds sweetness and freshness; can substitute with summer squash.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing; high-quality oil elevates the flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh; adds depth.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Brightens the dish; use dried basil sparingly if fresh is unavailable.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese Creamy binder; Parmigiano-Reggiano can be a milder substitute.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the spaghetti and set aside, keeping it warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and just golden.
  3. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet, gently tossing to coat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini becomes golden and tender, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the zucchini is cooked, turn the heat to low and add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the spaghetti with the zucchini mixture, adding a bit of reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce becomes creamy.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat, stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Plate your Spaghetti alla Nerano in warm bowls and garnish with additional Pecorino Romano and basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!