Description
Avocado Carbonara is a healthy twist on the classic pasta dish, replacing heavy cream with nutrient-rich avocado for a creamy, indulgent, yet guilt-free meal. Quick and easy to make, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
- Cook the Pancetta: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and pancetta. Cook until crispy, then remove from heat.
- Combine Everything: Return drained pasta to the skillet with pancetta. Pour in the avocado sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Replace pancetta with sautéed mushrooms.
- Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add chopped chili peppers.
- Protein Boost: Top with a poached or soft-boiled egg.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: pasta , dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian inspired
Keywords: Avocado Carbonara, Healthy Carbonara, Creamy Avocado Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, No Cream Carbonara