Penne alla Vodka

• Original Recipe Source: Salt & Lavender

• Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4

Description

This easy penne alla vodka recipe is a restaurant-quality dish with a silky tomato cream sauce. It only takes 20 minutes to make, so it's a perfect way to elevate busy weeknights!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• ½ small onion, chopped finely

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ¼ cup vodka

• ¼ cup tomato paste (preferably from a tube)

• ¾ cup heavy/whipping cream

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil, sliced thin (optional, to taste)

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Boil a generously salted pot of water for the penne and cook it al dente according to package directions. (Remember to save a splash of hot pasta water before draining, just in case you need to thin the sauce out later.)

2. Sauté Aromatics: Meanwhile, add the oil and butter to a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes or until softened (it's okay if it lightly browns).

3. Add Garlic & Vodka: Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the vodka and let the sauce bubble for 30 seconds or so.

4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste until you've got a smooth mixture. Stir in the cream, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the sauce warm through and thicken up (this usually happens within a couple of minutes).

5. Combine & Serve: Season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh basil if using. Toss with the drained pasta, and serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired!