Description
Grilled Zucchini Carbonara is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines smoky grilled zucchini with crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a silky, egg-based sauce. This Italian-inspired recipe offers a delicious summer twist on the classic carbonara, delivering a perfect balance of textures and rich flavors perfect for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Meats
- 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
Oils & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: 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 and set aside.
- Grill the Zucchini: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Remove from grill and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the Bacon and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until smooth.
- Toss Pasta with Bacon: Add the hot drained pasta to the skillet with the crispy bacon and garlic. Toss well to combine, then remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Add Egg Mixture and Combine: Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture into the pasta while tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to help achieve a smooth and luscious consistency.
- Fold in Grilled Zucchini: Gently fold the grilled zucchini pieces into the creamy pasta mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Remove the skillet from direct heat before adding the eggs to prevent scrambling and ensure a creamy sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest and richest sauce texture.
- Add extra black pepper if you prefer a more traditional, spicier carbonara flavor.
- Pancetta can be substituted for bacon if preferred, offering an authentic Italian taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
