Penne alla Vodka is a beloved Italian pasta dish that combines rich, creamy tomato sauce with the bold kick of vodka. The sauce is infused with garlic, onions, and crushed tomatoes, while the vodka adds depth and enhances the flavors. The result is a smooth and velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the penne pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- For the Pasta:
- 400g penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- Salt (for pasta water)
- Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vodka Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Vodka:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Carefully add the vodka to the pan, stirring to incorporate. Allow the vodka to cook off and reduce slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Add the sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy vodka sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the Penne alla Vodka hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread and a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Penne alla Vodka:
- Vodka Selection: You don’t need an expensive vodka for this dish, but a good quality one will help enhance the flavor. Avoid flavored vodkas, as they can alter the sauce’s balance.
- Cream Options: While heavy cream gives the sauce its rich and velvety texture, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as creamy.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta to the pasta.
Conclusion:
Penne alla Vodka is a fantastic dish that strikes the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results. Make it for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or any occasion where you want to impress with a homemade Italian classic!
