PENNE WITH VODKA SAUCE
4 to 6 servings
Heat in a large skillet over medium heat:
- 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Add and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
Add and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute:
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
Stir in:
- One 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
- ¼ cup vodka
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Simmer briskly for 10 minutes. Stir in and heat through:
- ½ cup heavy cream
Meanwhile, cook in a large pot of boiling salted water:
- 1 pound dried penne
Stir into the sauce:
- (12 basil leaves, chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Drain the pasta and add to the sauce. If desired, add:
- (½ cup grated Parmesan [2 ounces])
Toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce.