Avocado Carbonara

Avocado Carbonara is a modern, creamy twist on the classic Italian pasta dish that traditionally features eggs, cheese, and cured pork. This version elevates the concept with ripe avocados and nutrient-rich kale to create a smooth, luscious sauce that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The sauce is made even silkier with egg yolks, olive oil, and a splash of reserved pasta water that gently cooks the eggs into a rich, velvety texture. Enhanced by garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and cayenne pepper, this dish delivers layers of flavor with every bite. Crispy crumbled bacon and grated Parmesan cheese add a savory finish. Quick to prepare and packed with healthy fats and vitamins, it’s the perfect weeknight meal when you crave something comforting but nourishing. Whether you're trying to sneak in more greens or looking for a pasta recipe that feels both familiar and fresh, Avocado Carbonara checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

1 lb linguine noodles
2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
2 egg yolks
2 large kale leaves
3–4 garlic cloves
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1½ tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1 cup reserved pasta water
4–5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, blend the avocados, egg yolks, kale, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a blender or food processor until smooth.

3. Add Pasta Water to Sauce
With the blender running on low speed, slowly pour in the reserved hot pasta water. Increase the speed to medium-high and blend until the sauce is creamy and well-emulsified. This process helps gently cook the egg yolks without scrambling them.

4. Toss Pasta in Sauce
Immediately pour the warm avocado sauce over the drained pasta. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated.

5. Mix in Bacon and Cheese
Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly and serve right away while warm.

6. Optional Garnish
Top with extra Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Serving and Nutrients

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 538 kcal
Protein: 14g per serving
Fiber: 8g per serving

This dish is a fantastic combination of healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil, protein from the eggs and bacon, and fiber from the kale and pasta. It’s filling without being too heavy, and perfect for anyone seeking a creative way to enjoy classic comfort food with a healthy, flavorful twist.