Avocado Carbonara

Avocado Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a creamy and healthy alternative that everyone will enjoy. This pasta recipe is perfect for summer, thanks to its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The smooth avocado sauce combined with turkey bacon creates a unique flavor profile that is both satisfying and guilt-free, making it a great choice for family dinners, potlucks, or simply a quick weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The avocados create an incredibly smooth and rich sauce without the need for heavy cream.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and vitamins from kale, this dish offers nourishment without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and spices brings out a burst of flavor that elevates the dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Avocado Carbonara, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Large pot
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: This tool ensures your avocado sauce is perfectly smooth, blending all ingredients without lumps.
• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to boil pasta evenly and prevents overcrowding.
• Colander: Draining the pasta efficiently is crucial for achieving the right texture in your dish.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the flavors are balanced throughout the recipe.

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Ingredients

A quick, unique, extra creamy and healthy pasta that is perfect for summer and everyone is sure to love!

For the Pasta

• 1 lb Linguini Noodles

For the Avocado Sauce

• 2 Avocados (pit removed and peeled)
• 2 Egg Yolks
• 2 large leaves of Kale
• 3-4 cloves Garlic
• ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 ½ Tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ½ teaspoon Paprika
• Pinch Cayenne

Additional Ingredients

• 1 cup Pasta Water (reserved)
• 4-5 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)

How to Make Avocado Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Salt generously before adding linguini noodles.
3. Boil until al dente according to package instructions.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine:
2. Avocados
3. Egg Yolks
4. Kale Leaves
5. Garlic Cloves
6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
7. Lemon Juice
8. Kosher Salt
9. Paprika
10. Cayenne
11. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Sauce with Pasta

1. With the reserved pasta water, turn on the blender/food processor on low.
2. Slowly add hot pasta water while mixing until smooth.
3. Pour avocado sauce over cooked linguini noodles.
4. Stir thoroughly to combine.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Add crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon and shredded Parmesan cheese.
2. Stir again to mix all ingredients well.
3. Serve immediately for best flavor experience!

How to Serve Avocado Carbonara

Avocado Carbonara is a delightful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this unique pasta dish.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creaminess of the avocado sauce.

Garlic Bread

• Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover avocado sauce, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Grilled Vegetables

• Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious addition that enhances flavor.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges provide an extra zing when squeezed over the pasta, brightening the dish with citrus notes.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

• A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, balancing the richness of the avocado carbonara beautifully.

How to Perfect Avocado Carbonara

To create the best Avocado Carbonara, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out creamy and flavorful every time.

• Choose ripe avocados: Selecting perfectly ripe avocados ensures a smooth and creamy sauce. Look for ones that yield slightly when pressed.

• Reserve pasta water wisely: Save at least one cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.

• Blend until smooth: When mixing ingredients in a blender or food processor, blend until completely smooth for a velvety texture that clings to the pasta.

• Add seasoning gradually: Taste the sauce after blending and adjust salt or spices as needed. This ensures balanced flavors throughout.

• Serve immediately: Avocado can brown quickly; serve the dish right after mixing to enjoy its vibrant green color and fresh taste.

Best Side Dishes for Avocado Carbonara

Pairing side dishes with Avocado Carbonara can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender add a savory touch that complements the creamy pasta.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli offers a nutritious crunch and pairs well with the buttery flavors of avocado.

3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers create a vibrant appetizer that’s easy to prepare.

4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon brings additional protein and fiber while enhancing overall flavors.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture contrast, making them a fun side alongside pasta.

6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides acidity to balance the richness of the avocado carbonara.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn offers great flavor contrast and is perfect for summer gatherings.

8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs brings lightness to your plate while adding delightful flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Avocado Carbonara can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your dish.

• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados won’t blend smoothly and can affect the creaminess of your sauce. Choose avocados that are slightly soft to the touch.
• Not reserving enough pasta water: Failing to save enough pasta water can lead to a dry sauce. Always reserve at least one cup of pasta water before draining your noodles.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente will make it mushy. Follow package instructions and taste for doneness a minute before it’s supposed to be done.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors. Taste your avocado sauce and adjust salt, lemon juice, or other spices as needed before combining with the pasta.
• Blending too long: Over-blending can make the sauce too runny. Blend just until smooth and creamy for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Avocado Carbonara

• Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 1 month.
• Consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta for better texture.

Reheating Avocado Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Avocado Carbonara.

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg yolks in Avocado Carbonara?

You can use whole eggs, but it may alter the texture slightly. Egg yolks provide a richer creaminess that’s ideal for this dish.

How do I make my Avocado Carbonara vegan?

To make a vegan version of Avocado Carbonara, substitute the egg yolks with additional avocado or silken tofu for creaminess and omit cheese or use a vegan alternative.

What should I serve with Avocado Carbonara?

Avocado Carbonara pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for added flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Avocado Carbonara?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing.

Can I customize my Avocado Carbonara?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different types of cheese based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Avocado Carbonara is not only creamy and delicious but also healthy and quick to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Give this unique recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a summer favorite!