Creamy Vodka Pasta
Ingredients
- • 400 g penne pasta
- • 30 ml olive oil
- • 4 cloves garlic
- • 2 g red pepper flakes
- • 60 g tomato paste
- • 120 ml vodka
- • 400 g crushed tomatoes
- • 240 ml heavy cream
- • 60 g parmesan cheese, grated
- • 15 g fresh basil, chopped
- • 1 sprinkle salt to taste
- • 1 sprinkle black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it deepens in color and becomes slightly caramelized.
- 4
Remove the pan from heat and carefully add the vodka. Return to heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to cook off the alcohol and reduce slightly.
- 5
Add the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- 6
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns a beautiful pink color and is well combined.
- 7
Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with the grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped basil.
- 9
Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition data is approximate and derived from OpenFoodFacts.org. Values may vary based on ingredients, brands, and preparation methods. Not intended as dietary or medical advice.
Chef's Note
"This silky vodka pasta is my go-to for easy entertaining—the vodka helps marry the cream and tomatoes into the most luxurious sauce, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. Don't skip the red pepper flakes; that gentle heat makes all the difference."
