Penne with Pink Vodka Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 (8 ounce) package penne pasta
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the vodka and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato puree, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
7. In a large bowl, combine the sauce and the cooked pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve with a side salad.

Interesting Facts

• Vodka is a neutral spirit, which means it has a mild flavor and doesn't overpower the other flavors in the sauce.
• The tomato puree adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Penne is a type of short, tubular pasta that is perfect for holding sauces.