Vegetarian Carbonara

Introduction

Vegetarian Carbonara offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring creamy, savory goodness without the meat. This version combines fresh vegetables and an egg-based sauce for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
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)
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)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
   While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using peas and mushrooms, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until tender.
3. Prepare the carbonara sauce:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) until smooth.
4. Combine the pasta and sauce:
   Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and toss to combine. Remove the skillet from heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the hot pasta, stirring quickly to coat and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve:
   Garnish the Vegetarian Carbonara with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Substitute or add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream or a vegan cheese alternative instead of eggs and Parmesan.
• Smoky Flavor: Add smoked tempeh or vegan bacon for a smoky twist.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent drying out.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
   Yes, any gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.
2. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
   Nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese can work as a substitute.
3. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
   Ensure the skillet is off the heat when adding the egg mixture and stir quickly.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time.
5. What type of pasta works best?
   Spaghetti is traditional, but any pasta shape you prefer will work.
6. Can I freeze Vegetarian Carbonara?
   Freezing is not recommended due to the egg-based sauce, which may not thaw well.
7. Is this recipe vegetarian?
   Yes, it is completely vegetarian as it contains no meat.
8. Can I add protein?
   Yes, you can add cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
9. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Gently in a skillet or in the microwave with a splash of water.
10. Can I omit the vegetables?
    Yes, but they add flavor and nutrition; you might want to replace them with other ingredients.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Carbonara is a creamy and flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. With its rich, savory flavors and simple preparation, it’s an ideal meal for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Enjoy this delicious pasta dish and explore the variations to make it your own!

Print