Savour the Flavour: Quick & easy Vodka Pasta Recipe

Pasta, an Italian masterpiece, never fails to captivate the taste buds with its diverse textures and endless versatility.

If you're seeking to switch up your pasta experience, we've got just the recipe for you—Vodka Pasta.

This delectable dish combines the richness of cream, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the subtle kick of vodka to create a creamy, dreamy pasta experience. Its honestly my quick 15min go-to for lunch or dinner and makes for the perfect dish for when friends are coming around.

Let's embark on a culinary journey and discover the secrets to crafting this heavenly Vodka Pasta.

Ingredients:

• 350g Rigatoni pasta (Or Penne your choice!)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced - or Jarred is fine do 2 tea spoons

• 2 tablespoons of Italian herbs and spices (jar spice)

• 150g of tomato paste - I buy the bottled resealed paste to reuse

• 50ml vodka

• 80ml heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Grated Parmesan - for both to add in and to garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic, butter, spices and cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Add in the tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes.

3. Introduce the Vodka: Carefully add the vodka to the simmering sauce, stirring gently to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and infuse the flavours.

4. Incorporate the cream and parmesan: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a creamy consistency. Season the sauce with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper according to your taste preferences.

5. Toss in the Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss it gently, ensuring each pasta is coated in the creamy vodka-infused sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Vodka Pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if its date night or else just leave) and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra burst of flavor.

7. Bon Appétit! Your Vodka Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it hot and relish the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that make this dish an absolute delight.

This Vodka Pasta recipe is a perfect choice when you're in the mood for a quick, easy and comforting meal. Pair it with a glass of your favourite wine, and you'll experience Italian cuisine at its finest. Buon appetito!