Penne alla Vodka
Try this Penne alla Vodka recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Penne alla Vodka recipe, or contribute your own.
- penne alla vodka is a classic italian pasta dish m but so good!penne alla vodka is one of those recipes that (i think) too often gets over looked in italian cuisine. to look at the dish – it’s just penne pasta in tomato sauce. but when you look under the hood (so to speak), there’s a lot more to this simpl
- ingredients1 pound penne pasta2 tablespoon s extra diced 1/2 cup vodka1 28-ounce can crushed san marzano tomatoes (we used cento brand) 1/2 teaspoon kosher saltfew grinds black pepper 1/2 cup heavy cream2 tablespoon s butter1 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely cho
- butter â· cheese â· cream â· garlic â· prosciutto â· to
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (0g)
- Sodium 0 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0 g
- Calories 0 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook 1 pound penne pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta cooks, in a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons diced prosciutto and cook until lightly browned.
- Add 1/2 cup vodka and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly reduced.
- Stir in 1 28-ounce can crushed San Marzano tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
A Weeknight Italian Escape: My Simple Penne alla Vodka
Penne alla Vodka. The name itself conjures images of sun-drenched Italian streets, bustling trattorias, and the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes and creamy sauce. But the reality is, this dish is surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. For years, I've been intimidated by Italian cooking, believing it to be a complex art form reserved for culinary experts. Then, I discovered the beauty of simplicity. This Penne alla Vodka recipe became my gateway to understanding that authentic Italian flavor doesn't necessitate hours of labor or a pantry overflowing with obscure ingredients.
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's not about exotic ingredients or complicated techniques; it's about the quality of the few ingredients you *do* use. The San Marzano tomatoes provide a depth of flavor that's unmatched. Their sweetness and slight acidity form the perfect base for the creamy vodka sauce. A touch of good Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a knob of butter elevate this simple pasta dish to something truly special. I often find myself making this on a Tuesday night after a long day at the office. It's my little escape, a taste of Italy without the plane ticket.
The preparation is remarkably straightforward. While the pasta cooks, I sauté a little prosciutto for a hint of salty, savory goodness. The addition of vodka might seem unusual, but it adds a surprising depth and richness to the sauce, creating a velvety texture that’s both decadent and comforting. I usually have all the ingredients on hand – the pantry staples are always stocked, and I try to keep fresh basil in my fridge for just these kinds of moments. The entire process takes about 20-25 minutes, leaving me plenty of time to relax with a glass of wine after a busy day.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Penne alla Vodka recipe is incredibly versatile. I often adjust it to suit my mood and what I have available. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, or swap the prosciutto for pancetta for a smokier flavor profile. I've even experimented with adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a heartier meal. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability – it's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
This isn’t just a pasta dish; it's a feeling. It's the warmth of a comforting meal after a long day, the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious from simple ingredients. It’s a reminder that even the simplest recipes can transport you to another place, another time, another feeling – all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, delicious, and utterly satisfying weeknight meal, give this Penne alla Vodka recipe a try. You might just find yourself surprised at how easy and rewarding it is to create a little taste of Italy in your own home.
Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Pecorino Romano or even a blend of Parmesan and Asiago would add a unique twist to the dish. And don't skip the fresh basil; it truly makes all the difference!
