Vegetarian Spaghetti Carbonara with Zucchini
The perfect dish for meatless Monday or for entertaining. Spaghetti Carbonara with Zucchini is sure to please and is simple to make.
Equipment
- Cheese Grater (see my note about my favorite grater!)
Ingredients
- 2-3 Small Zucchinis Use organic if possible
- 4 Tbsp Olive Oil Extra Virgin
- 2 Eggs, room temperature
- 12 oz Spaghetti
- 3/4 cup Pecorino Cheese
- Salt
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Slice and cook zucchini in skillet with a little olive oil with salt until they are golden brown.
- While the zucchini is browning, cook the spaghetti according to package and drain. (Save some pasta water, about a 1/4 cup)
- Mix the egg yolk and freshly grated cheese into a bowl and set aside. (Use one egg yolk per person and one extra for good measure. Use 1/4 cup grated cheese per person
- Combine egg mixture with pasta and add pasta water and stir until creamy. Add zucchini, salt and pepper.
Notes
I have a confession to make. I do not really like zucchini.
I assure you, it’s not from lack of trying. I have sampled it in soups, salads, stews, and pasta dishes but always find myself pushing little zucchini pieces off to the side. It is surprising since I really do love vegetables!
When my daughter offered to make this recipe for dinner a couple of weeks ago I was hesitant but would never pass up an offer to have someone else make dinner.
The sauteed zucchini is a fabulous addition to this pasta dish and this recipe is outstanding. It is simple, delicious, and I ate every bite.
The recipe serves 3-4 people but it’s easy to increase. Just do one yolk per person plus one extra and 1/4 cup cheese per person.
A few tips:
Remember to always choose the best ingredients. I know you have heard that before but I want to assure you it is worth it to spend a little more on your olive oil and on the cheese.
Freshly grated cheese is always going to be better than pre-packaged. Freshly grated cheese will perform better, have more flavor and you get more for your money. Pre-shredded cheese is treated with an anti-mold agent and has anti-clumping ingredients added.
I am not big on gadgets. They always sound good at first but soon end up missing a piece or forgotten. This is my favorite cheese grater because there are no parts to lose, it has a rubber handle so it fits comfortably in your hand, has multiple uses, and is dishwasher safe.
Change it up
This dish is fun to dress up! Try serving with roasted pine nuts and fresh basil ribbons on top. You could also add in fresh sliced mushrooms and spinach after the zucchini has cooked for a few minutes.
In the mood for a little spice? Just sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Enjoy!
