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Spicy Vodka Pasta

Spicy Vodka Pasta: Creamy Comfort with a Zesty Kick

Spicy Vodka Pasta combines creamy tomato sauce with vodka, creating a comforting dish with a zesty kick, perfect for dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides a rich base for cooking; substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Introduces heat; adjust for spice level.
  • 1/4 cup Vodka Contributes sharpness; can be replaced or skipped.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes (14.5 oz) Forms the sauce base.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Provides creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for lighter version.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds subtle heat; freshly cracked recommended.
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Pasta (penne or rigatoni) Choose a shape that holds sauce well.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds salty depth; freshly grated recommended.
For the Garnish
  • Fresh Basil Provides fresh herbal flavor; tear leaves by hand.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Vodka Pasta
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in 1/4 cup of vodka and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Mix in one can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Cook 12 ounces of pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  8. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta; set aside.
  9. Lower heat and stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
  10. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if too thick.
  11. Mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted, and serve with torn fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer, and adjust spice levels to preference.

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