Name: Avocado Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado; 1 egg yolk; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 clove garlic; ½ lemon, juiced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ lb spaghetti (225 g); 1 tablespoon olive oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative: Swapping cream and eggs for avocado reduces saturated fat while adding heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite pasta, herbs, or additional veggies.
Deliciously Creamy: The avocado creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ripe avocado
1 egg yolk
½ cup heavy cream
1 clove garlic
½ lemon, juiced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 strips bacon
½ lb spaghetti (225 g)
1 tablespoon olive oilWhipped It Up+4Samsung Food+4tasty.co+4die-maennerkueche.de+8tasty.co+8Samsung Food+8

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, egg yolk, garlic, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse to incorporate.Cookist+1tasty.co+1
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the bacon fat. Pour in the avocado sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Top with crumbled bacon and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutesHalf Baked Harvest+15California Avocados+15La Cucina Italiana+15Samsung Food+7The Holderness Family+7Cookist+7die-maennerkueche.de+2tasty.co+2ayana-gohan.com+2

Variations

Vegan Version: Omit the bacon and use a plant-based yogurt or cream alternative.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado sauce for some heat.
Herb Infusion: Blend fresh basil or parsley into the sauce for an herbal note.The Holderness Family

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or bucatini.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the avocado sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a lighter version.

How do I prevent the avocado sauce from browning?

Adding lemon juice to the sauce helps prevent browning. Additionally, storing the sauce in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface can minimize exposure to air.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

For a low-carb version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Can I use store-bought guacamole instead of fresh avocado?

It’s best to use fresh avocado for optimal flavor and texture, but in a pinch, plain store-bought guacamole can be used.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or blend in a small jalapeño pepper for some heat.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the avocado sauce may change in texture upon thawing.

Conclusion

Avocado Carbonara offers a creamy, flavorful twist on the traditional carbonara, providing a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the rich, velvety sauce and the crispy bacon in every bite.