Penne Alla Vodka

Indulge in the creamy goodness of penne alla vodka, a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. With its luscious tomato-vodka sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in, penne alla vodka is the perfect choice for any pasta lover. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 400g penne pasta
• 1 cup vodka
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 cup), this dish contains approximately 580 calories, 28g fat, 60g carbohydrates, and 15g protein. This is a hearty dish best enjoyed in moderation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Lower the heat and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until well mixed.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Enjoy your homemade penne alla vodka with a side salad or garlic bread!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Additionally, use gluten-free penne to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. For a vegetarian option, omit the pancetta and add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Serving and Pairings

Penne alla vodka pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of chilled white wine complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover penne alla vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. It can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness.
• Adding cold cream to a hot pan can cause curdling.
• Not seasoning the sauce properly can make it bland.
• Using low-quality vodka can impact flavor.
• Skipping the simmer time for the sauce can result in a raw taste.

Helpful Tips

• Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Let the vodka cook down properly for a smoother taste.
• Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I make penne alla vodka ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta just before serving. Combine them together for the best flavor and texture.

Is penne alla vodka spicy?

Traditionally, it’s not very spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.

What type of vodka is best for this recipe?

Use a good quality vodka that you enjoy drinking. Avoid flavored vodkas for the best results.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or fettuccine, but penne is traditionally used.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat or seafood and add more vegetables to the sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Penne alla vodka is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy at home!

Penne Alla Vodka

A creamy and flavorful dish featuring penne pasta in a rich vodka sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: penne alla vodka, pasta, Italian cuisine, creamy sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 580kcal

Ingredients

• 400 g penne pasta
• 1 cup vodka
• 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

• Boil salted water and cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain.
• In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion until translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
• Add crushed tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Drain the pasta and toss it in the sauce until evenly coated.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 580kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 2g