Pasta Alla Vodka is a creamy and tasty dish that combines pasta with a rich tomato-vodka sauce. It’s simple yet special, making it perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how this meal comes together quickly; just cook the pasta and mix it with that velvety sauce! You’ll want to save leftover sauce for dipping bread—trust me, it’s a must! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is a great shape for holding onto the sauce. If you don’t have penne, you can use rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you choose a different type!
Vodka: The vodka adds depth to the sauce by enhancing the flavors. If you’re avoiding alcohol, you can leave it out, but consider adding a splash of veggie broth or extra crushed tomatoes for moisture.
Heavy Cream: Cream makes the sauce rich and velvety. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor profile might shift a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds nuttiness and saltiness to the dish. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Successfully Reduce Vodka in Cooking?
Reducing the vodka is important to concentrate its flavor and cook off the alcohol. Here’s how to do it properly:
- After adding vodka to your sautéed onions and garlic, let it simmer on medium heat.
- Keep an eye on it and stir gently. It should reduce by at least half in about 3-4 minutes.
- The goal is for the vodka to blend into the sauce without leaving a strong alcohol taste.
This technique really helps meld the flavors and makes a great base for your creamy sauce! Enjoy your Pasta Alla Vodka with these tips in mind!
How to Make Pasta Alla Vodka
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick yet delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This will build a flavorful base for your sauce!
3. Add Garlic and Heat:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burned garlic can taste bitter.
4. Add Vodka:
Now, carefully pour in the vodka. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it has reduced by half. This way, you’ll get the depth of flavor without a strong alcohol taste.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
6. Create a Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for another 5 minutes until it becomes creamy and slightly thickened.
7. Add Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it has melted and combined well. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
8. Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with that delicious creamy tomato sauce.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Pasta Alla Vodka immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy your rich, creamy pasta with a subtle tang of vodka and a lovely hint of tomato!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use any pasta shape like rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure it’s al dente!
Is There a Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can use half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly different with these substitutes.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Vodka?
Yes, you can omit the vodka altogether. To maintain moisture and flavor, consider adding a bit more crushed tomatoes or veggie broth, but the sauce will be slightly different without the depth vodka provides.
