🍝 Penne alla Vodka (Creamy Tomato Vodka Pasta)
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 2–3
🧾 Ingredients:
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200g penne pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1/4 cup vodka
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1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🍳 Instructions:
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Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water and drain.
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In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
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Stir in garlic and chili flakes; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Carefully pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Add the tomato puree, stir well, and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
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Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and pink. Season with salt and black pepper.
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Add the drained penne and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
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Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and combine well.
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Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan on top.
💡 Tips:
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The alcohol in vodka cooks off, leaving a sharp tang that enhances the tomato and cream.
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You can substitute penne with rigatoni or fusilli if desired.
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Add sautéed mushrooms, pancetta, or grilled chicken for a heartier variation
