CELEBRITY•🇺🇸 USA

Stanley Tucci's 4-Ingredient Late-Night Pasta That Won Over Social Media

The actor and culinary travel host explains the gentle frying technique behind Spaghetti alla Nerano, proving authentic Italian luxury requires only four humble ingredients.

By Julian Thorne•Published Sept 6, 2026•⏱ 4 mins read

Verified Reporting

Twirl of al dente spaghetti with thin golden fried zucchini discs and freshly grated Provolone del Monaco

Photo: Simply Recipes Food News / Verified Editorial Photography

📌Key Facts & Highlights

•Spaghetti alla Nerano hails from the Amalfi Coast, spotlighted on Tucci's Emmy-winning travel series.
•Requires only zucchini, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil, and aged Provolone or Parmigiano.
•The secret is deep-frying sliced zucchini rounds until caramelized, then letting them soften in pasta water.
•The dish has become one of the most replicated pasta dishes on TikTok and culinary blogs in 2026.

What Happened

Award-winning actor and food author Stanley Tucci has reignited global passion for regional Italian cooking. His breakdown of Spaghetti alla Nerano—discovered during his travels along the Sorrento peninsula—has inspired millions of home cooks to turn cheap summer zucchini into a velvety, creamy restaurant-grade masterpiece.

Why It Matters

Tucci's approach democratizes gourmet dining by showing that silky emulsions don't require heavy cream or butter—just starchy cooking water, quality cheese, and patience.

Who Is Affected

Pasta lovers, Italian food enthusiasts, and fans of simple weeknight Italian cooking.

What Readers Should Know

Slice the zucchini paper-thin using a mandoline, fry in batches until pale golden, and let the zucchini rest overnight in the fridge if you want the traditional Amalfi velvety consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cheese is traditionally used in Spaghetti alla Nerano?

Traditionally, Provolone del Monaco (a semi-hard, slightly spicy cow's milk cheese from Sorrento) is used, but a mixture of Parmigiano-Reggiano and sharp provolone makes an excellent substitute.