Penne Alla Vodka: A Delightful Pasta Dish for Every Occasion
Penne alla Vodka is a flavorful and indulgent pasta dish that showcases the deliciousness of penne, a larger, macaroni-shaped pasta that is ribbed to hold onto sauces both inside and out. This recipe transforms the classic vodka sauce, which is a specialty of some Roman restaurants, into a home-cooked favorite that is perfect for serving as an appetizer for 3 to 4 people or as a satisfying main dish for 2 to 3 diners.
By infusing the sauce with red peppers steeped in vodka for several days, you can elevate the flavors of this dish to new heights. The key is to ensure that you have a large, hot serving dish to toss the finished penne, keeping it mouthwateringly hot and ready to enjoy. This quick-to-prepare meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering.
Recipe Summary
| Name | Penne Alla Vodka |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 3-4 as an appetizer; 2-3 as a main dish |
| Description | Creamy, flavorful vodka sauce with tender penne pasta, infused with the unique taste of red peppers steeped in vodka. |
| Category | Pasta |
| Keywords | Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Quick Meals |
Ingredients
For this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne | 1 pound |
| Water | 4 quarts |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Tomatoes | 1 can (14 ounces), crushed |
| Vodka | 1/3 to 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated (plus more for serving) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Red pepper | 1 (optional, steeped in vodka) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 672 |
| Total Fat | 19.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 43 mg |
| Sodium | 202 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 105.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.2 g |
| Sugars | 3.4 g |
| Protein | 13.9 g |
Instructions
Prepare to create this delicious dish by following these easy-to-understand steps, designed to help you achieve the perfect Penne alla Vodka:
-
Prepare the Red Pepper: Begin the flavor enhancement by steeping the red pepper in vodka at least three days prior to cooking. This step is crucial for infusing the sauce with a delightful peppery essence that complements the dish.
-
Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and stir well to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta until al dente, which should take approximately 10 minutes, but be sure to taste it for the desired doneness.
-
Make the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to enhance the flavor and prevent the butter from browning. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the finely chopped onion. Stir well and allow the onion to soften, cooking for about 5 minutes without allowing it to brown.
-
Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the softened onion. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce thickens slightly.
-
Incorporate Cream: Next, add the heavy cream to the sauce, stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to heat through, which should take just a couple of minutes.
-
Infuse with Vodka: Carefully strain the steeped red pepper from the vodka, discarding the pepper (or reserving it for another use). Pour the vodka into the sauce, stirring well to incorporate. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the flavors meld beautifully.
-
Prepare to Serve: To ensure a delightful dining experience, make sure your serving plate or bowl is preheated. You can do this by running it under hot water or placing it in a warm oven for a few minutes. Once hot, place a small amount of the prepared sauce in the bottom of the bowl, swirling it around to coat the surface evenly.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the penne is cooked to your liking, drain it well, ensuring you retain some of the pasta water for a creamy sauce consistency if needed. Add the drained pasta directly to the saucepan with the vodka sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it thoroughly.
-
Final Touches: If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Once combined, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing again to distribute evenly.
-
Serve Immediately: Transfer the pasta to your preheated serving dish, making sure to scoop up plenty of the creamy vodka sauce. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy your delightful Penne alla Vodka immediately while it is still warm and delicious!
Enjoying Your Penne alla Vodka
This Penne alla Vodka recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties, casual weeknight meals, or special occasions. The rich and creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Don’t hesitate to customize the dish by adding vegetables or proteins of your choice, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to create a heartier meal that suits your personal preferences.
With its straightforward preparation and elegant presentation, Penne alla Vodka is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy this Italian classic, and don’t forget to save some leftovers for tomorrow—you might just find that it tastes even better the next day!
This recipe for Penne Alla Vodka serves as a delightful addition to the Love With Recipes collection, catering to those seeking a low-protein, low-cholesterol, and healthy option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that embodies the joy of home cooking.
