Spaghetti alla Nerano! A Creamy Delightful Symphony of Zucchini and Provolone Cheese

Spaghetti alla Nerano! A Creamy Delightful Symphony of Zucchini and Provolone Cheese

Have you ever dreamt of biting into a pasta dish so delicate yet intensely flavorful, a masterpiece where sweetness meets salty tang? Allow me to introduce you to “Spaghetti alla Nerano,” a culinary gem hailing from the sun-drenched coastal town of Nerano near Sorrento on Italy’s captivating Amalfi Coast.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill spaghetti. Spaghetti alla Nerano transcends the ordinary, showcasing the essence of Italian simplicity with masterful execution. The star ingredients are humble yet transformative: fresh zucchini blossoms (fiori di zucchine) and delicate provolone del monaco cheese, both local delicacies that capture the essence of the Neapolitan countryside.

The magic unfolds as thinly sliced zucchini, sauteed to perfection in olive oil until tender yet retaining a slight bite, melds with creamy provolone cheese melted into a velvety sauce. This cheesy embrace coats each strand of spaghetti like a warm hug, creating an explosion of textures and flavors in every mouthful.

Crafting the Perfect Spaghetti alla Nerano: A Culinary Journey

Preparing this dish is akin to embarking on a culinary adventure, where patience and precision are rewarded with extraordinary results.

Ingredients:

  • 300 grams spaghetti
  • 500 grams fresh zucchini, sliced thinly
  • 150 grams provolone del monaco cheese, grated
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preparing the Zucchini: Begin by gently sautéing the sliced zucchini in a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, allowing them to cook until tender yet retaining their vibrant green hue. Remember, the goal is to preserve their texture – we don’t want mushy zucchini!

  2. Creating the Creamy Sauce: Once the zucchini is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, melt a knob of butter over low heat. Slowly whisk in the grated provolone cheese until it forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

  3. Cooking the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid will be our secret weapon for achieving the perfect saucy consistency.

  4. Assembling the Dish: Drain the cooked spaghetti and toss it gently with the zucchini and creamy cheese sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed, ensuring the sauce coats each strand beautifully.

  5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and aroma. Serve immediately and savor the symphony of textures and flavors.

Spaghetti alla Nerano: Beyond the Plate

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an embodiment of Nerano’s culinary heritage, a testament to the region’s abundant fresh produce, and a celebration of Italy’s passion for simple yet profound cuisine. Each bite transports you to the sunny Amalfi Coast, where life moves at a slower pace and every meal is an occasion for joy and togetherness.

Variations and Tips:

  • Embrace Seasonality: For a truly authentic experience, use zucchini blossoms (fiori di zucchine) when in season. These delicate blooms add a subtle floral sweetness that elevates the dish to another level.

  • Cheese Substitutions: If provolone del monaco is unavailable, try substituting it with other mild, melting cheeses like fontina or even mozzarella.

  • Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

  • Presentation Matters: Plate the Spaghetti alla Nerano elegantly, garnishing it with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. This simple touch adds a touch of sophistication to your culinary masterpiece.

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a testament to the fact that culinary magic often lies in simplicity. With fresh, high-quality ingredients and a touch of love, you can recreate this Neapolitan delight in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of cooking, and prepare to be transported by the creamy, zucchini-infused wonder that is Spaghetti alla Nerano!