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Pennestroika Penne With Vodka & Spicy Tomat

Pennestroika Penne With Vodka & Spicy Tomat recipe image
This Pennestroika dish is a vibrant twist on classic vodka sauce, balancing the acidity of diced tomatoes with the richness of heavy cream. The addition of vodka helps release flavor compounds from the tomatoes that water or wine cannot, creating a deeper, more complex sauce. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that warms the palate without overwhelming the creamy texture. The pasta is tossed directly with the sauce, allowing it to absorb every bit of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy date night in, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients. The fresh parsley at the end adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel light yet satisfying. It is an easy, comforting meal that feels indulgent but comes together in under forty minutes.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2
Calories: 140.9
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This Pennestroika dish is a vibrant twist on classic vodka sauce, balancing the acidity of diced tomatoes with the richness of heavy cream. The addition of vodka helps release flavor compounds from the tomatoes that water or wine cannot, creating a deeper, more complex sauce. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that warms the palate without overwhelming the creamy texture. The pasta is tossed directly with the sauce, allowing it to absorb every bit of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy date night in, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients. The fresh parsley at the end adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel light yet satisfying. It is an easy, comforting meal that feels indulgent but comes together in under forty minutes.
Ingredients
  • 1/8 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 lg Garlic cloves minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
  • 15 oz Can diced tomatoes
  • 8 oz Penne or similar pasta
  • 1/2 c Heavy cream or half and -half
  • 2 tb Vodka
  • 1/4 c Chopped parsley
  • to taste Salt
Directions
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. 2
    Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  3. 3
    Drain pasta and reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining completely.
  4. 4
    While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. 5
    Add minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt to the skillet.
  6. 6
    Cook garlic, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. 7
    Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic mixture.
  8. 8
    Simmer the tomato sauce for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  9. 9
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
  10. 10
    Pour in the vodka and toss pasta to coat evenly.
  11. 11
    Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
  12. 12
    Toss everything together until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.
  13. 13
    Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
  14. 14
    Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  15. 15
    Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 140.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7.8g12%
Saturated Fat 1.1g6%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 8.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 16.5g6%
Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 3.2g7%

* 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: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to restore consistency.

Substitutions: You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the vodka with an equal amount of pasta water or vegetable broth, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Variations: Add cooked Italian sausage, shrimp, or chicken to make this a heartier main course. For a vegan option, omit the cream and use a cashew cream or coconut milk alternative.

Tip: Do not overcook the garlic; it can turn bitter if burned. Keep the heat moderate when saut&# 195;©ing the garlic and pepper flakes.

Keywords: pasta, penne, vodka, tomato, cream, spicy, italian, dinner, easy, quick, comfort food, garlic, olive oil, pepper flakes, parsley, al dente, sauce, weeknight
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pennestroika-penne-with-vodka-spicy-tomat/