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Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka - Simple Easy Meals

Ah, penne alla vodka. Just saying the name makes my mouth water. It instantly transports me to a quaint Italian bistro where the light dances off rustic wooden tables, and the aroma of simmering sauces fills the air. 
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese optional, to taste
  • Fresh basil, sliced thin optional, to taste

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once it comes to a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This typically takes about 11-13 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally. You want the pasta to be firm yet tender when you bite into it.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. While the pasta cooks, it's time to work on the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste
  1. Next, stir in the tomato paste. The paste adds a rich flavor to the sauce. Allow it to cook in the pan with the onions and garlic for about 2 minutes. This step helps caramelize the tomato paste slightly, deepening the flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the Vodka
  1. It's time to add the star ingredient—vodka! Carefully pour in 1/4 cup of vodka. This will not only enhance the flavor but also help lift any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of your pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. You want the taste of vodka without the burn, if you catch my drift.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
  1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. The cream gives the sauce its beautiful, creamy texture. Stir it well to combine with the tomato paste and vodka mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and all the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Once the penne is cooked to perfection, drain the pasta and add it straight into the sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta is beautifully coated in that luscious sauce. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of the pasta cooking water to loosen it.
Step 7: Finish with Butter and Cheese
  1. To elevate this dish even further, add 2 tablespoons of butter and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the butter melts and everything is combined. Finish with fresh basil if you're using it; it adds a beautiful aroma and flavor kick.

Notes

  • Use Quality Ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Use high-quality olive oil and cheese.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You want your penne to be al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
  • Experiment with Vodka: Different brands may produce different flavors. A cheaper vodka is usually just fine but avoid flavored vodkas unless you’re feeling adventurous!
  • Add Some Spice: For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce.
  • Make it Vegetarian or Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese for a vegan version.