Indulge in the sumptuous flavors of penne alla vodka, a beloved Italian pasta dish that combines the richness of cream with the tangy notes of tomatoes and a hint of vodka. This recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, penne alla vodka is sure to impress with its delightful taste and creamy texture.
Ingredients
– 400g penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 400g crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains around 500 calories, 20g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein. This nutritional information is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. Carefully add the vodka, allowing it to cook off for about 2 minutes.
7. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, tossing to combine.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, such as rigatoni or fusilli. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of vodka for a non-alcoholic version.
Serving and Pairings
Penne alla vodka pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if it appears dry. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, but the cream may change texture upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid high heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the vodka; it enhances the sauce.
– Always season your sauce to taste.
– Stir the pasta in the sauce to ensure even coating.
– Be careful not to add too much salt early on.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality tomatoes for a richer sauce.
– Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor; add it at the end.
– Experiment with spicy red pepper flakes for a kick.
– Let the vodka cook off to enhance the flavor.
– Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make penne alla vodka vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting any meat-based ingredients.
Is there a gluten-free option for penne alla vodka?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free penne pasta made from rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version.
How can I make penne alla vodka spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level in the dish.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the vodka sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Just reheat it when ready to serve.
What type of vodka is best for this recipe?
Any good-quality vodka will work well; there’s no need to use an expensive brand.
Conclusion
Penne alla vodka is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and vodka. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With its simple preparation and luscious taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Penne Alla Vodka
Ingredients
- 400 g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 400 g crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Add the vodka, allowing it to cook off for about 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, tossing to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
