Keto Creamy Avocado Carbonara
A healthier twist on classic carbonara that swaps pasta for spiralized zucchini and creates a silky sauce from avocado, cream, and parmesan. The bacon adds smoky richness while spinach boosts nutrition. Perfect for low-carb dieters or anyone wanting a lighter Italian-inspired meal that comes together in under 20 minutes. The avocado creates an unexpectedly creamy base that mimics traditional egg-cream carbonara while adding healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 2 slices smoked bacon
- 2 medium zucchini
- ½ avocado
- ½ cup spinach
- 1 egg yolk
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- ½ lemon, juiced
- ¼ cup parmesan
Instructions
- 1
Combine cheese, egg yolk, spinach, avocado, lemon juice and heavy cream in a blender and blitz until smooth
- 2
Fry bacon on medium heat until crispy, remove half from pan for garnish
- 3
Fry zucchini and crushed garlic for 5 minutes using same pan used for bacon
- 4
Add blended ingredients to pan, mix through to heat up, season and serve immediately
- 5
Garnish with crispy bacon
Tips
Spiralize zucchini just before cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
Don't overheat the avocado sauce or it may separate - just warm through gently.
Save some pasta water equivalent by not draining zucchini completely for extra creaminess.
Good to Know
Best served immediately. Leftovers keep 1 day refrigerated but zucchini releases water.
Blend sauce up to 2 hours ahead. Spiralize zucchini just before cooking.
Serve immediately while warm with extra parmesan and black pepper.
Common Mistakes
Don't oversalt as bacon and parmesan add plenty of sodium.
Avoid high heat with avocado sauce to prevent separation and bitterness.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular pasta instead of zucchini?
Yes, use 8 oz pasta and cook according to package directions. The dish will be higher in carbs but equally delicious with the creamy avocado sauce.
What if my avocado sauce looks grainy?
Blend longer until completely smooth, or strain through fine mesh. Make sure avocado is ripe and add cream gradually while blending.
How long does this keep in the fridge?
Best eaten immediately. Zucchini releases water and avocado may brown. If storing, keep for only 1 day and refresh with lemon juice.