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Avocado Carbonara

Creamy Avocado Carbonara for a Healthy Dinner Twist

Creamy Avocado Carbonara offers a healthy and delicious twist on a classic dish, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Linguini Noodles The base of the dish providing structure and carbohydrates.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 ripe Avocados Adds creaminess and healthy fats; use ripe avocados for the best flavor.
  • 2 large Egg Yolks Contributes a rich, creamy texture; essential for the carbonara sauce.
  • 2 cups Kale Adds nutrition and vibrant color; can substitute with spinach for a twist.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Imparts aromatic flavor; use fresh cloves for the best aroma.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances richness and flavor; opt for high-quality oil for optimal taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens flavors, balancing the creaminess; adjust to taste for acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors in the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides a warm note; can be replaced with smoked paprika for additional flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Adds a slight kick; adjust or omit based on spice tolerance.
  • 1 cup Pasta Water Key for adjusting sauce consistency; be sure to reserve before draining the pasta.
For the Savory Touch
  • 4 slices Bacon Adds a savory and smoky element; can be omitted for a vegetarian version or replaced with mushrooms.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Provides a nutty umami flavor; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • blender
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Avocado Carbonara
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguini noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the noodles and set aside.
  2. In a blender, combine the ripe avocados, egg yolks, kale, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, paprika, and cayenne. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  3. With the blender running on low, gradually add the reserved hot pasta water, blending until the sauce achieves a creamy consistency.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, pour the creamy avocado sauce over the drained linguini noodles. Using tongs or a fork, gently toss to ensure every strand is evenly coated.
  5. To elevate your dish, stir in crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version, along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
  6. Plate the creamy Avocado Carbonara and garnish with additional parmesan cheese, crispy bacon, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

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