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Penne alla Vodka
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Carefully pour in 1/2 cup of vodka and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and well combined.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the vodka sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Penne alla vodka is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in the 1970s. It is believed to have been created by Italian chefs in the United States, particularly in New York City, where it gained popularity in Italian-American restaurants. The dish features penne pasta cooked al dente and then tossed in a creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka, which adds a unique depth of flavor. The sauce typically includes ingredients like tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Some chefs also add pancetta or prosciutto for an extra savory touch. Today, penne alla vodka can be found on menus in Italian eateries across the world, and it continues to be a beloved comfort food dish. For the best version of this dish, look for a restaurant with a reputation for authentic Italian cuisine, where the pasta is perfectly cooked and the vodka sauce is rich and flavorful. It's important to get the balance of creaminess, tanginess, and a hint of vodka just right to truly capture the essence of this iconic dish. If you're making it at home, using high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and a good vodka, can make a significant difference in the final result. Some alternative methods for making penne alla vodka include using a splash of vodka to deglaze the pan after sautéing the garlic and red pepper flakes, or flambeing the vodka for a dramatic touch. Whether enjoyed in a cozy trattoria or prepared in your own kitchen, penne alla vodka is a timeless indulgence that continues to captivate pasta lovers around the world.
30 min
4
550 calories
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