That Zucchini Spaghetti Stanley Tucci Loves (Spaghetti alla Nerano)
After witnessing Stanley Tucci rave about Spaghetti alla Nerano, calling it a life-changing dish, I decided to embark on this culinary journey. The key ingredient? Deep-fried zucchini, which gives the dish its unique flavor profile. Let’s dive into this Zucchini Spaghetti Recipe and see why it’s one of Tucci’s favorites.
Yield and Prep Information
This recipe serves 2, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. The prep time is 20 minutes, cooking takes 35 minutes, with an additional time of 8 hours. The total time rounds up to 8 hours and 55 minutes, giving you a delightful meal for two.
Ingredients for the Zucchini Spaghetti Recipe
To create this extraordinary dish, you will need:
- 1 quart sunflower oil, or as needed
- 6 medium zucchini
- 4 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 basil leaves, torn into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 tablespoons grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
How to Make the Zucchini Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Fry the Zucchini
Begin by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds. Subsequently, heat the sunflower oil in a large pot over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Deep-fry the zucchini slices in batches until they are golden brown and crispy. This method releases the zucchini’s natural sweetness, giving the dish its signature taste.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
While your zucchini cools, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water for later use if required.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the fried zucchini slices, a pinch of salt, and torn basil leaves. Toss gently to combine.
Step 4: Blend and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the zucchini mixture, along with the reserved pasta water, unsalted butter, and cheeses. Toss to coat the spaghetti evenly and melt the cheeses. The result is a creamy, savory dish with a hint of sweetness from the zucchini.
Healthier Cooking Option
If you’re looking to reduce the amount of oil used in this dish, consider air-frying the zucchini slices instead of deep-frying. This method maintains the flavor and texture while using less oil, making it a healthier yet delicious alternative.
Why You’ll Adore This Zucchini Spaghetti Recipe
This delightful recipe is ready in under 9 hours, offering a scrumptious balance of flavors. Above all, it’s a nutritious and savory option that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Certainly, this recipe captures the joy of Italian cuisine and highlights the simple yet profound ingredients at its heart.
Try this Zucchini Spaghetti Recipe for yourself and experience why Stanley Tucci couldn’t get enough of it. Share your thoughts and variations below!
