Penne Alla Vodka

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion; diced
• 4 garlic cloves; minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Pinch of crushed red pepper
• Fresh basil leaves; torn for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water
3. In a large pot heat olive oil and butter on medium heat
4. Add onions, cook for a few minutes until softened and translucent
5. Add garlic, cook 1 minute then add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes
6. Add tomato paste, cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the onions and garlic in the paste
7. Pour in the vodka, cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally
8. Add in crushed tomatoes, simmer for 10-15 minutes on low-medium low heat
9. Taste and add seasonings as needed
10. Add cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy, simmer 2 more minutes
11. Add pasta to sauce and the reserved pasta cooking water if needed (start by adding just 2 tablespoons of the water, splash in more as needed)
12. Top with fresh torn basil leaves and more grated Parmesan
13. Serve and enjoy!