Spaghetti alla Nerano! An Explosion of Creamy Ricotta and Fried Zucchini Perfection!

Nestled amongst the breathtaking Amalfi Coast in Italy, Sorrento beckons travelers with its charming streets, azure waters, and delectable cuisine. While this region boasts an array of culinary treasures, one dish stands out as a testament to simple ingredients transformed into pure gastronomic delight: Spaghetti alla Nerano. Imagine strands of perfectly al dente spaghetti interwoven with velvety smooth ricotta cheese, punctuated by the delicate sweetness of fried zucchini ribbons and crowned with a drizzle of fragrant basil oil.

This dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, a true embodiment of “cucina povera,” or “poor kitchen” cuisine - a tradition where humble ingredients are elevated through skillful preparation and culinary ingenuity.

Spaghetti alla Nerano’s origins are steeped in the traditions of the coastal village of Nerano, near Sorrento. Legend has it that this dish was born in the 1950s when a local fisherman, enchanted by the abundance of zucchini from his garden, decided to pair them with spaghetti and fresh ricotta cheese. The result? A culinary masterpiece that captured the essence of the region’s bounty.

Deconstructing the Delights: The Components of Spaghetti alla Nerano

Let’s delve into the heart of this Neapolitan gem by exploring its key components:

• Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti made with durum wheat semolina for its perfect al dente bite, which holds up beautifully to the creamy ricotta sauce.
• Zucchini: Opt for young zucchini with vibrant green skin and firm flesh. Thinly slice them lengthwise into ribbons using a mandoline or a sharp knife. This ensures even cooking and creates delicate bites that melt in your mouth.

• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh, creamy ricotta cheese made with cow’s milk. Its delicate sweetness and subtle tang beautifully complement the zucchini and basil. Strain any excess liquid to ensure a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves are essential for their vibrant aroma and distinct anise-like flavor. Use them generously to elevate the dish’s fragrance and taste.
• Garlic: Finely minced garlic adds subtle savory notes to the sauce. Be cautious not to overcook it, as burning will result in bitterness.

Mastering the Art: Preparing Spaghetti alla Nerano

The magic of Spaghetti alla Nerano lies in its simplicity.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreate this masterpiece in your kitchen:

1. Fry the Zucchini: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the zucchini ribbons in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels and season with salt.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with minced garlic. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain it, reserving some pasta water.
4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to combine. Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Divide the spaghetti among plates, top with fried zucchini ribbons, and drizzle generously with basil oil (extra virgin olive oil infused with chopped fresh basil).

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: The zucchini should be lightly browned and crispy but not mushy.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the ricotta mixture before adding it to the spaghetti and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Basil Oil is Key: Fresh basil oil adds a vibrant flavor and aroma that elevates the dish. To make it, simply infuse extra virgin olive oil with chopped fresh basil leaves for 30 minutes to an hour.

• Garnish Generously: Top the spaghetti with generous amounts of fried zucchini ribbons and drizzle liberally with basil oil. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Spaghetti alla Nerano is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into culinary brilliance. Its creamy ricotta, sweet fried zucchini, and fragrant basil create an unforgettable symphony of flavors and textures. This dish embodies the spirit of Italian cuisine: celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients and elevating them through careful preparation and thoughtful combinations. So next time you’re craving a taste of Italy, transport yourself to the Amalfi Coast with this culinary gem!