Description
This Vegetarian Carbonara offers a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish by substituting traditional bacon with sautéed vegetables and a rich egg and Parmesan sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner that delivers comfort without meat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
Sauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian hard cheese)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or your chosen pasta until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency later.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. If using, stir in frozen peas and sliced mushrooms, cooking until tender.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent scrambling the eggs. Pour in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring quickly and continuously to coat the pasta evenly and form a creamy sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Reserved pasta water is crucial to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth, but you can omit it for a milder dish.
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- The vegetables used (peas and mushrooms) are optional; feel free to customize or omit based on preference.
