Skip to main content

Spaghetti alla Carbonara di Zucchine

This vegetarian courgette carbonara is a bright and seasonal twist on the classic Roman pasta dish. By swapping traditional guanciale for tender, golden-brown courgette slices, you create a meal that feels lighter while remaining deeply satisfying. The combination of extra-virgin olive oil and sautéed garlic provides a fragrant base, while fresh basil leaves add a peppery top note that cuts through the richness of the silky egg and Parmesan sauce.

Perfect for a quick midweek supper or a relaxed weekend lunch, this easy pasta recipe relies on the heat of the freshly cooked spaghetti to create its signature creamy consistency. It is an excellent way to use up a summer glut of courgettes and offers a nutritious, high-protein vegetarian option that the whole family will enjoy. Serve it simply with an extra grating of cheese and a twist of black pepper.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spaghetti alla Carbonara di Zucchine

  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 garlic clove, peeled

  • 450g medium courgette, trimmed, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds (about 850ml )

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 90g freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 70g )

  • 350g spaghetti

  • 6 large fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces, divided

How to make Spaghetti alla Carbonara di Zucchine

Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until pale golden, about 1 minute. Add courgette and sauté until beginning to colour, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat; discard garlic.

Meanwhile, whisk eggs and Parmesan in large bowl to blend. Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta; add to egg mixture and toss to coat (heat from pasta will cook eggs).

Add courgette mixture and half of basil to pasta; stir gently to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with remaining basil and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.