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Spaghetti alla Nerano

Savor Authentic Spaghetti alla Nerano: A Creamy Delight

Enjoy the comforting flavors of Spaghetti alla Nerano, a creamy Italian dish that combines zucchini and Pecorino Romano cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Feel free to substitute with any long pasta you love.
For the Sauce
  • 2 medium Zucchini Replace with summer squash for a different twist.
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil Use extra virgin for a rich flavor.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic elevates aroma and taste.
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
For the Finish
  • ½ cup Pecorino Romano Cheese Swap with Parmigiano-Reggiano for milder flavor.
  • a handful Fresh Basil Fresh is best, dried can be used in a pinch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced zucchini to the skillet and sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
  4. Gently toss in the drained spaghetti with the sautéed garlic and zucchini. Gradually add reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
  5. Stir in grated Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Plate the spaghetti, garnishing with additional cheese and fresh basil. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, reserve enough pasta water and use fresh ingredients. Personalize the dish with additional vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.

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