Penne a la Vodka Pasta Recipe

PENNE A LA VODKA

• 6 quarts water
• salt
• 1 (32-oz) can Italian plum or stewed tomatoes
• 1 lb. penne pasta
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 10 cloves garlic, peeled
• crushed hot red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter or olive oil
• 2-3 Tbsp.chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Bring 6 quarts salted water to a boil in a 8-quart pot over high heat and cook the pasta according to directions.

Meanwhile, pour the tomatoes and their liquid into a food processor or blender and process until blended.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Whack the garlic cloves with the side of a knife and add them to the hot oil. Cook, shaking the skillet, until the garlic is lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes, careful not to splatter as the oil will be hot. Bring to a boil, season lightly with salt and generously with crushed red pepper, and boil 2 minutes. Add the vodka and simmer until the pasta is ready.

Just before the pasta is done, scoop out the garlic cloves and discard. Add the cream and the 2 tablespoons butter or oil, and incorporate into the sauce.

Drain the pasta and place in a pasta platter and pour sauce over pasta. Sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and parsley. Serve immediately.

Serves 6