Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka Pasta

Penne alla Vodka is a creamy and comforting pasta dish made with a rich tomato-vodka sauce, balanced by a touch of cream and Parmesan. The vodka enhances the flavors of the tomatoes, creating a smooth, slightly tangy, and indulgent sauce that clings perfectly to penne pasta. A true Italian-American favorite!

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
  
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
  
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  
• 200g (7 oz) tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
  
  
• 60 ml (¼ cup) vodka
  
  
• 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
  
  
• 50g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  
  
• Salt & black pepper to taste
  
  
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

1.Cook the pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

2.Prepare the sauce

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

3.Deglaze with vodka

• Pour in vodka and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.

4.Add tomato base

• Stir in the tomato sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

5.Creamy finish

• Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream.
• Let it gently simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and pink.

6.Combine

• Add drained pasta to the sauce.
• Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

7.Serve

• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
• Garnish with fresh basil if desired.