Spaghetti alla Nerano! A Delicate Dance of Zucchini, Provolone, and Basil

Italy’s Amalfi Coast, a dramatic tapestry woven with turquoise waters, terraced vineyards, and charming villages perched on cliffs, offers a culinary experience as breathtaking as its scenery. While the region is renowned for its seafood, lemons, and delectable pastries, there exists a dish that embodies the essence of simple, yet exquisite Italian cooking: Spaghetti alla Nerano.

Hailing from the picturesque fishing village of Nerano near Sorrento, this pasta dish is a testament to the power of fresh, seasonal ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary. Picture perfectly cooked spaghetti strands entwined with tender ribbons of zucchini, all melted together by the creamy embrace of Provolone del Monaco cheese, a local speciality.

A sprinkle of basil adds an herbaceous touch, while a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil brings a silky richness to the symphony of flavors. Spaghetti alla Nerano is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that transports you straight to the heart of this sun-kissed Italian paradise.

Unpacking the Flavors: A Symphony of Simplicity

The beauty of Spaghetti alla Nerano lies in its elegant simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Spaghetti: Choose a high-quality durum wheat spaghetti for a firm bite that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Zucchini: Opt for young, tender zucchini with a vibrant green hue. Thinly slicing them lengthwise ensures they cook evenly without becoming mushy.
Provolone del Monaco: This semi-hard cheese, produced in the Campania region, is characterized by its mild, slightly salty flavor and exceptional melting properties. It adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish without overpowering other flavors.

Table 1: Key Ingredients for Spaghetti alla Nerano

Ingredient	Description
Spaghetti	Firm durum wheat spaghetti
Zucchini	Young, tender zucchini, sliced lengthwise
Provolone del Monaco	Semi-hard cheese with a mild, slightly salty flavor
Basil	Fresh basil leaves for an herbaceous touch
Extra Virgin Olive Oil	High-quality olive oil for richness and flavor

Basil: This aromatic herb adds a refreshing, peppery note that elevates the dish. Tear the basil leaves gently to release their essential oils.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity, slightly peppery flavor. It acts as the binding agent for all the ingredients and adds a layer of luxurious richness.

Cooking Spaghetti alla Nerano: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing this exquisite dish is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps to recreate the magic of Nerano in your own kitchen:

Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and thinly slice the zucchini lengthwise, discarding the ends.
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Sauté the Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the zucchini slices for about 5 minutes, or until softened but still slightly firm. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt a generous portion of Provolone del Monaco cheese over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked spaghetti and sautéed zucchini to the melted cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Finish with Basil: Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the pasta. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Tips for Perfection: Elevating Your Spaghetti alla Nerano Experience

Use Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly influences the taste of the dish. Opt for fresh zucchini during its peak season and high-quality Provolone del Monaco cheese.
Cook the Zucchini Gently: Avoid overcooking the zucchini, as it can become mushy. Aim for a texture that is softened but still retains some bite.
Melt the Cheese Slowly: Melting the Provolone del Monaco over low heat allows it to develop its creamy texture without separating.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the zucchini, use a large skillet and avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Spaghetti alla Nerano typically doesn’t require additional salt, but feel free to adjust seasoning according to your preference.
Garnish with Flair: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with a sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (though purists might argue against this).

Spaghetti alla Nerano is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a celebration of Italian culinary tradition, simplicity, and the exquisite flavors that emerge when high-quality ingredients are treated with respect. This dish will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, leaving you craving for more. Buon appetito!