Vermicelli Alla Nerano (Italian Fried Zucchini Pasta)
You’re craving something luxuriously creamy, garlicky, and fresh—but your pantry laughs in your face when you search for spaghetti. All you’ve got is vermicelli. But let’s keep an open mind—because this twist on the iconic Spaghetti alla Nerano recipe might just become your new go-to.
Ingredients
- 200 g 7 oz vermicelli pasta (or spaghetti)
- 2 medium zucchini thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 small yellow squash optional, thinly sliced into rounds
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for frying
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ½ cup vegan Parmesan cheese grated (or traditional Parmesan/Pecorino)
- ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves chopped or torn
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Reserved pasta water about 1 cup
- 🧂 Optional Garnish:
- Extra basil leaves
- A sprinkle of grated vegan cheese or Pecorino
- Cracked pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Vermicelli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the vermicelli until just al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain.
Step 2: Fry the Veggies
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini (and squash, if using) in a single layer. Fry in batches to ensure they become golden brown—about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- Reduce to medium-low heat, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté your garlic clove until fragrant—30 seconds max. Don’t burn it!
Step 4: Mash the Zucchini
- Return half of the fried zucchini slices to the pan. Use a spoon or food processor to mash them into a paste, creating a base for your creamy zucchini sauce.
Step 5: Add Pasta Water & Basil
- Add a ladleful of pasta water and stir until a silky sauce begins to form. Stir in your fresh basil.
Step 6: Toss the Vermicelli
- Add the drained pasta and toss to coat. Gradually mix in vegan Parmesan cheese (or your cheese of choice) until it melts into the sauce. Stir in the remaining fried zucchini for texture.