Classic Penne alla Vodka: Creamy and Rich Italian Pasta Dish

Penne alla Vodka is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka. This recipe combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with a rich and indulgent sauce made from tomatoes, cream, and the unmistakable flavor of vodka. It's the ultimate comfort food for pasta lovers, and the perfect dish for a special evening or a cozy dinner at home. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you can recreate this restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka, and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

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