Defeat Diabetes

Low Carb Zoodle Carbonara

2 mins read

Salting the zucchini before cooking helps remove excess moisture and prevents soggy ‘zoodles’. It's also really important not to overcook them! The easiest way to make zoodles is to use a spiraliser, available at kitchenware stores. Alternatively, you can use a vegetable peeler to cut zucchini into wide long strips, then use a knife to cut into thin ‘zoodles’.

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

10 mins

Meal Type

Dinner

Servings

1

Carbs

4.8 g

This Zoodle Carbonara is a nutritious, low-carb version of the traditional Italian favourite. Zucchini noodles (or "zoodles") replace pasta for a lighter, diabetes-friendly option, while creamy egg yolk and parmesan form a delicious, glossy sauce.

Low carb eBooks and eCookbooks:

Why you'll love this recipe:

  • Low in carbs: With only 9.2g net carbs per serving, this is the perfect option for those following a low-carb or diabetes-friendly diet.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
  • Rich in protein and healthy fats: The egg yolk, cream, and pancetta provide a satisfying, protein-packed meal with a dose of healthy fats.
  • Packed with flavour: The creamy parmesan sauce combined with crispy pancetta and garlic-infused zoodles will satisfy your taste buds.
  • Vegetarian option: Easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the pancetta for a lighter, meat-free version.

Key ingredients:

Zucchini (for zoodles): 

A low-calorie, low-carb vegetable rich in fibre, helping to keep you full and support digestion.

Egg yolks: 

High in protein and healthy fats, egg yolks help to create a creamy, satisfying sauce without the need for heavy cream.

Pancetta: 

Adds savoury, crispy texture and a rich flavour, while providing healthy fats and protein.

Parmesan cheese: 

Full of calcium and protein, parmesan cheese enhances the creamy sauce while adding a sharp, tangy flavour.

Olive oil: 

Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil supports overall health and adds richness to the dish.

Garlic: 

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic adds bold flavour and supports immune health.

More low carb breakfasts you'll love:

Low Carb Keto Avocado BLT
Low Carb Keto Avocado BLT
Low Carb Greek Yiros
Low Carb Greek Yiros
Low Carb Chicken Slider and Slaw
Low Carb Chicken Slider and Slaw

Low Carb Zoodle Carbonara

A nutritious, low carb alternative to the classic Italian carbonara.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Meal Type Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 1 People
Dietary Keto

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g zucchini, cut into zoodles
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ tbsp cream
  • 1⁄8 cup parmesan cheese
  • ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 25 g pancetta, diced
  • ½ garlic clove, crushed
  • pinch salt

Garnish

  • ½ tbsp parsley, flat-leaf, finely chopped
  • ½ tbsp parmesan cheese

COOK MODE

Instructions
 

  • Place zoodles in a large colander, sprinkle with sea salt and set aside for 10 minutes. Rinse zoodles under cold running water. Pat dry with absorbent paper to remove excess moisture.
  • Whisk the egg yolks, cream and parmesan together in a medium-sized bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  • Heat 1 teaspoon of the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the pancetta, stirring, for 5 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate and set aside. (Skip this step if you're making a vegetarian version).
  • Heat remaining oil in the same pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until fragrant. Add zoodles and cook, tossing with tongs, for 1–2 minutes or until just tender. Do not overcook. Remove from heat.
  • Return pancetta to the zoodle pan with egg mixture and quickly toss, until egg mixture coats zoodles and forms a glossy sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately garnished with parsley and extra parmesan.

Notes

Tip: Don't toss out your egg whites! Pop them in a container and freeze them for later use (just remember to note on the container how many egg whites are in there).
 
Tip: Looking for a veggo option? Just leave out the pancetta.

Nutrition (per serve)

Net Carbs: 4.8gProtein: 11.8gFat: 24.6gFiber: 3.2gCalories: 288kcal
Keyword Carbonara, Comfort food, Cream, Egg, Pasta, Quick, Zoodle, Zucchini
{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

Join Australia's leading doctor-led, evidence-based program transforming the lives of those with pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions.

  • Deep-dive lessons
  • Video masterclasses
  • Easy-to-read articles
  • Progress tracking
  • 450+ low carb recipes
  • Weekly meal plans
  • Community support
  • Nutrition Q&As
>