Vodka Rigatoni Recipe ๐
Overview:
Vodka Rigatoni is a sumptuous pasta dish bursting with rich flavors and a touch of elegance, making it ideal for special occasions or those weeknight cravings for something truly indulgent. This recipe combines the warmth of a creamy tomato sauce with the zing of vodka, balanced by the salty bite of prosciutto and the savory notes of asiago cheese.
Cooking Times:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 | Shallot, finely chopped |
| 1/4 tsp | Crushed red pepper flakes |
| 1/2 cup | Vodka |
| 3/4 cup | Tomato sauce |
| 3/4 lb | Rigatoni pasta |
| 8 oz | Prosciutto, thinly sliced |
| 4 oz | Asiago cheese, grated |
| 2/3 cup | Fresh parsley, chopped |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh basil, chopped |
| 2 tsp | Dried basil |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 360.9
- Total Fat: 17.3g
- Saturated Fat: 7.9g
- Cholesterol: 72.7mg
- Sodium: 184mg
- Carbohydrates: 34.8g
- Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugar: 2.1g
- Protein: 7.1g
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a heavy, large skillet over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped shallots and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Sautรฉ until the shallots are translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
- Flambe with Vodka:
- Add the vodka to the skillet and carefully ignite with a long match to burn off the alcohol.
- Allow the flames to subside, shaking the pan continuously.
- Create Creamy Base:
- Increase the heat to high, then add the whipping cream.
- Boil for 3 minutes or until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Introduce Tomato Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato sauce and continue to boil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- The sauce should thicken and coat the back of a spoon.
- Prep the Pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the rigatoni in salted water until tender yet still firm to the bite.
- Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the salted cooking water.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add the prepared vodka sauce, thinly sliced prosciutto, 1/3 cup of grated asiago cheese, chopped parsley, and basil.
- Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the mixture seems too dry, add the reserved 1/4 cup of cooking water to loosen it up.
- Season the dish to taste with freshly ground pepper.
- Final Touches:
- Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated asiago cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the luxurious flavors!
Chef’s Tips:
- ๐ฟ For a burst of fresh flavor, add the basil just before serving.
- ๐ง Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twistโtry pecorino romano or Parmesan.
- ๐ฅ When igniting the vodka, use extreme caution and keep a safe distance from the flames.
- ๐ To make this dish even heartier, consider adding some grilled chicken or sautรฉed mushrooms.
Make Ahead:
- The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and chilled, making dinner prep a breeze.
Serving Suggestions:
- ๐ฅ Serve with a crusty baguette for mopping up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
- ๐ฅ A simple side salad with a lemony vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Conclusion:
Vodka Rigatoni is a dish that elevates the ordinary pasta dinner into a gourmet experience. With its creamy vodka sauce, salty prosciutto, and tangy asiago cheese, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a luxurious meal, this recipe is sure to impress! Buon appetito! ๐ทโจ
