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Stanley Tucci Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe

Stanley Tucci Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe

The Stanley Tucci Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe became famous after Stanley Tucci shared his love for this simple Italian pasta dish. It looks elegant, but it is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 3 medium zucchini thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup grated Provolone cheese
  • 8 fresh basil leaves torn
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions
  

Slice the Zucchini

  • Wash the zucchini carefully and pat them dry. Slice them into thin rounds using a sharp knife. Thin slices cook evenly and become beautifully tender during frying.

Fry the Zucchini

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini slices in batches. Cook until lightly golden on both sides. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels.

Let the Zucchini Rest

  • Allow the fried zucchini to rest for about ten minutes. This step helps soften the zucchini further. It also allows the flavors to develop before mixing them into the pasta.

Cook the Spaghetti

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Before draining, reserve half a cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Prepare the Flavor Base

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute. Stir gently until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much.

Add the Zucchini

  • Return the fried zucchini to the skillet. Stir gently to combine with the garlic and butter. The zucchini should become soft and flavorful while absorbing the delicious buttery mixture.

Combine with Spaghetti

  • Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss carefully so every strand gets coated with the zucchini mixture. Mix slowly to keep the zucchini from breaking apart completely.

Create the Creamy Sauce

  • Add Parmesan cheese and Provolone cheese gradually. Pour in a little pasta water while stirring. Continue mixing until the cheeses melt and form a smooth, creamy sauce.

Add Fresh Basil

  • Tear fresh basil leaves and stir them into the pasta. The basil adds brightness and a wonderful aroma. Mix gently so the herbs spread evenly throughout the dish.

Finish and Serve

  • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately in warm bowls. Garnish with extra cheese, fresh basil and cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Slice zucchini evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting.
  • Reserve extra pasta water if needed.
  • Add lemon zest for brightness.
  • Include red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Use pecorino cheese for a stronger flavor.
  • Do not overcook the spaghetti.
  • Add toasted pine nuts for crunch.
  • Garnish with extra basil before serving.
  • Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
Keyword Stanley Tucci Spaghetti Alla Nerano Recipe