Penne alla Vodka: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

Penne alla Vodka is a beloved Italian-American pasta dish that combines the smooth richness of cream, the tang of tomatoes, and the subtle kick of vodka. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. In this detailed recipe article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a delicious Penne alla Vodka, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Benefits:

1. Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, cream, and vodka creates a luscious sauce that’s both rich and tangy.
2. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
3. Versatile: You can customize the recipe with various proteins and vegetables to suit your taste.
4. Comforting: It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Penne alla Vodka Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Penne: Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain: Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    

   
   

    

2. Add Vodka: Pour in the vodka and let it simmer until it reduces by half, about 3-4 minutes. This will help to cook off the alcohol while keeping the flavor.

3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

2. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Divide the pasta among serving plates.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Perfect Penne alla Vodka

• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Don't Skip the Vodka: The vodka helps to release flavors from the tomatoes and adds a subtle depth to the sauce. The alcohol cooks off, so it’s safe for all ages.
• Cream Consistency: Adjust the cream to your liking. If you prefer a richer sauce, add a bit more cream.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta and can be used to adjust the sauce consistency.

Customizing Your Penne alla Vodka

Protein Additions:

• Chicken: Add cooked, sliced chicken breast for extra protein.
• Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in the skillet before making the sauce, then set aside and add back in at the end.
• Sausage: Cook Italian sausage and crumble it into the sauce for a heartier dish.

Vegetable Additions:

• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce.
• Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added flavor.
• Peas: Add frozen peas to the sauce and cook until heated through.

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.

Drinks:

• Wine: Pair with a glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay for a perfect match.
• Sparkling Water: Refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.
• Cocktails: A classic Italian cocktail like a Negroni or an Aperol Spritz.

Storing and Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Penne alla Vodka can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
• Microwave: Heat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Conclusion

Penne alla Vodka is a classic dish that’s both comforting and elegant. With its rich and creamy sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, Penne alla Vodka is always a great choice. Enjoy!

Did you try this recipe? Share your experience and any customizations you made in the comments below!