Pasta alla Vodka Recipe

Pasta alla Vodka is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, Pasta alla Vodka is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture.

Ingredients for Pasta alla Vodka

To make Pasta alla Vodka, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pasta: Use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
• Tomato sauce: Choose a good-quality tomato sauce or passata for the base of the sauce.
• Heavy cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Vodka: Use a good-quality vodka for flavor. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion provides a sweet base flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat to balance the richness of the cream.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor to the dish.
• Fresh basil: Chopped basil leaves for garnish and added freshness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

How to Make Pasta alla Vodka

Follow these steps to prepare Pasta alla Vodka:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add vodka and simmer: Pour in the vodka and simmer until it reduces by half, about 5 minutes. This step helps intensify the flavor of the sauce.
4. Combine sauce ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce or passata, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine and simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy vodka sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Serve: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves. Serve hot, and enjoy this creamy and flavorful Pasta alla Vodka!

About the Main Ingredients

• Pasta: The choice of pasta affects the dish’s texture. Pasta shapes with nooks and crannies, like penne or rigatoni, hold the creamy sauce well.
• Tomato sauce: Provides the base of the dish, contributing a rich tomato flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Vodka: Adds a unique depth of flavor and helps to enhance the overall taste of the sauce. It also aids in extracting flavors from other ingredients.
• Heavy cream: Creates a luscious and creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, making every bite decadent and satisfying.
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated Parmesan adds a salty and nutty flavor that complements the richness of the cream and the tanginess of the tomato sauce.

By following these simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality Pasta alla Vodka right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and delightful flavors.