A delicious low-carb version of the classic pasta carbonara made with zucchini noodles, pan-fried pancetta, and an irresistible creamy parmesan sauce.
Servings : 4Serves
Prep Time 15 minutesmins
Cook Time 15 minutesmins
Total Time 30 minutesmins
Ingredients
2poundszucchini
pat of butter
4ouncespancetta or bacon,diced
2clovesgarlic,minced
1wholeegg
3egg yolks
½cupgrated parmesan cheese
¼ to ½teaspooncrushed red pepper flakes,
salt and fresh ground black pepper,to taste
fresh basil ribbons,for garnish
freshly grated parmesan cheese,for garnish
fresh ground black pepper,for garnish
Instructions
Peel zucchini lengthwise with a vegetable peeler to create long strips.
Arrange the zucchini strips flat on a paper towel-lined baking sheet; lightly salt each strip and set aside to dry.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced pancetta or bacon and garlic; cook for 3 minutes or until golden crisp, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, combine the eggs, cheese, crushed red pepper, salt, and ground black pepper in a mixing bowl; whisk until well incorporated and set aside.
Using a paper towel, wipe down the zucchini strips, add them to the skillet with the pancetta, and cook for 1 minute.
Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately pour in the eggs and cheese sauce.
Using two forks, one in each hand, continually lift up the zucchini and pancetta so it mixes easily with the egg mixture, which thickens and cooks but doesn’t scramble; mix until everything is coated.
Garnish with basil, ground black pepper, and grated parmesan.
Serve immediately.
Notes
Drying The Zucchini: Ensure zucchini strips are thoroughly dried to prevent a watery sauce.
Portion Control: This dish may not be as filling as its pasta counterpart. Be prepared to serve larger portions.
Cooking The Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the sauce to avoid overcooking the eggs.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, salmon, or sautéed shrimp.
Extra Veggies: Try cherry tomatoes, peas, or mushrooms.
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.