Introduction
Jamie Oliver’s Beautiful Courgette Penne Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the fresh taste of courgettes, creating a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a beautiful and delicious plate of pasta.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Penne pasta – 300g
Courgettes – 2 medium, sliced
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Eggs – 2 large
Parmesan cheese – 50g, grated
Black pepper – freshly cracked, to taste
Salt – for pasta water and seasoning
Fresh basil – a handful, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This Beautiful Courgette Penne Carbonara not only serves as a delicious meal but also proves that cooking can be both quick and enjoyable. Experience the fresh flavors and creamy texture that this recipe has to offer. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the courgette
Using a vegetable peeler, slice the courgettes into thin strips. Aim for long, ribbon-like shapes to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Cook the pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the courgette
In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the courgette ribbons and cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and herbs
Finely slice a clove of garlic and add it to the pan with the courgettes. If desired, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine pasta and courgettes
Add the drained penne to the frying pan with the courgette mixture. Toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
Create the carbonara sauce
In a bowl, beat together eggs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add the sauce to the pasta
Remove the pan from heat. Gradually add the egg mixture to the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Serve and garnish
Transfer the pasta onto serving plates. Garnish with more grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Optionally, add fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Notes
Choosing courgettes
Select courgettes that are firm and unblemished for the best texture and flavor.
Pasta alternatives
Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine based on personal preference.
Vegetarian option
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan variant, substitute eggs and cheese with suitable alternatives.
Storage considerations
Leftover carbonara can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Cook techniques
Blanching
Blanching vegetables like courgettes helps to preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture. This technique involves briefly boiling the courgettes, then plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
Sautéing
Sautéing is used to cook vegetables quickly in a small amount of oil over high heat. This method enhances the flavors and maintains a tender bite in the courgettes.
Pasta Cooking
Cooking pasta until al dente is crucial in pasta dishes. This technique ensures the pasta remains firm to the bite and can hold up well when combined with the sauce.
Emulsifying
Emulsifying involves combining oil with other liquids, such as the reserved pasta water and egg mixture, to create a creamy consistency for the sauce.
Cheese Grating
Grating cheese finely ensures it melts evenly and incorporates smoothly into the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Mixing
Mixing the pasta with the sauce and courgettes over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to absorb the sauce, achieving a balanced dish.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables instead of courgettes?
Yes, you can substitute courgettes with other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, depending on your preference.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese and ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Can I add meat to this carbonara?
Absolutely! You can add cooked pancetta or bacon to give the dish an additional layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Penne Carbonara with courgettes is a delightful dish that balances creamy texture with the freshness of vegetables. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste or what you have available in your kitchen. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian dish while adding a nutritious twist.
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