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Penne Russo à la Vodka

35 min 4 servings Medium
Penne Russo à la Vodka is a classic Italian-American dish that combines the rich flavours of tomato, cream, and vodka to create a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of pasta. This version stays true to its roots by using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to deliver a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for pasta lovers who appreciate the balance of creamy and tangy flavours. The vodka helps to release the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a subtle depth to the sauce. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a romantic evening, Penne Russo à la Vodka is sure to impress. Ideal for those who enjoy Italian cuisine with a modern twist, this recipe ensures that your pasta nights are elevated to gourmet levels. It's a straightforward dish that even novice cooks can master, thanks to its simple yet effective cooking method.

Instructions

1

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until just before al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve some pasta water for the sauce.

2

Sauté the aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute.

Pro tip: Do not let the garlic brown.

3

Deglaze with vodka

Pour in vodka, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Pro tip: Ensure alcohol is cooked off before adding tomatoes.

4

Add tomato passata

Stir in the tomato passata and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavours to meld.

Pro tip: Simmering enhances the sauce's depth.

5

Incorporate cream

Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 5 minutes until creamy and smooth.

Pro tip: Avoid boiling after adding cream.

6

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro tip: Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

7

Garnish and serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Pro tip: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan enhances flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh garlic for the most authentic flavour.
  • Cook pasta just before al dente for perfect texture.
  • Allow sauce to simmer to enhance flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Penne Russo à la Vodka?

Penne Russo à la Vodka is a pasta dish with a creamy tomato and vodka sauce, popular in Italian-American cuisine.

Can I make Penne Russo à la Vodka without vodka?

Yes, you can omit vodka or replace it with water or stock, though the flavour will be slightly different.

How many calories are in Penne Russo à la Vodka?

There are approximately 620 calories per serving in this recipe.

What kind of cream is used in Penne Russo à la Vodka?

Heavy cream is used to create a rich and creamy sauce.

How long does it take to make Penne Russo à la Vodka?

This dish takes about 35 minutes from start to finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Penne Russo à la Vodka with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. A glass of crisp white wine or a light red complements the dish perfectly. This pasta dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce. It's an excellent choice for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Nutrition per serving

620

Calories

18g

Protein

28g

Fat

75g

Carbs