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Pasta Recipe

Pasta Recipe recipe image
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of butter and cream with the bright acidity of tomatoes and a subtle warmth from vodka. The vodka helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to the noodles. Aromatic shallots and garlic provide a savory base, while red chili flakes add a gentle kick of heat. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil, this meal is quick enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough for guests. It&# 226;ÂÂs a satisfying, home-style favorite that balances creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 1
Calories: 648.9
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of butter and cream with the bright acidity of tomatoes and a subtle warmth from vodka. The vodka helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to the noodles. Aromatic shallots and garlic provide a savory base, while red chili flakes add a gentle kick of heat. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil, this meal is quick enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough for guests. It&# 226;ÂÂs a satisfying, home-style favorite that balances creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
  • 1 lb pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 Tbsp vodka
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped
Directions
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. 2
    While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Add chopped shallot and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant and softened.
  4. 4
    Stir in red chili flakes and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste darkens slightly.
  5. 5
    Pour in vodka and let it simmer for 1 minute to cook off the alcohol.
  6. 6
    Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. 7
    Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time if the sauce is too thick.
  8. 8
    Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. 9
    Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1 cups

Amount Per Serving
Calories 648.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22.2g35%
Saturated Fat 13.1g66%
Cholesterol 53.8mg18%
Sodium 656.0mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 62.0g21%
Dietary Fiber 6.3g26%
Sugars 8.7g
Protein 12.9g26%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore consistency.

Substitutions: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may be less rich. Use white wine instead of vodka if preferred, but note that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Tips: Don't skip reserving the pasta water; the starch helps bind the sauce to the noodles. Adjust chili flakes to taste depending on your heat preference.

Keywords: pasta, vodka sauce, cream, tomato, parmesan, basil, garlic, shallot, chili flakes, vegetarian, dinner, easy, quick, comfort food, italian, sauce, noodles, butter
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pasta-recipe-17/