Description
Grilled Zucchini Carbonara is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines smoky grilled zucchini with crispy bacon and a silky, classic egg-based carbonara sauce. This recipe offers a delicious summer twist on traditional carbonara, perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Protein
- 4 oz (115 g) bacon, diced
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Grill Zucchini: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Grill them for 3–4 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred. Remove from grill and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Bacon and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crisp. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, finely grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until smooth.
- Toss Pasta and Bacon: Add the hot cooked pasta to the skillet with the crisp bacon and garlic, tossing to combine thoroughly.
- Add Egg Mixture: Remove the skillet from direct heat to prevent scrambling. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta while tossing continuously to create a silky, creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Fold in Zucchini: Gently fold the grilled zucchini pieces into the pasta mixture to distribute evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Remove the skillet from direct heat before adding the eggs to prevent the sauce from scrambling.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, creamier carbonara sauce.
- Add extra black pepper for a more traditional and slightly spicy carbonara flavor.
- Pancetta can be substituted for bacon if preferred for a more authentic Italian taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
