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Vodka pasta is a creamy, tangy, and slightly boozy Italian dish made with tomato sauce, heavy cream, and a splash of vodka.
Finally! A vodka pasta recipe that doesn’t leave you drowning in leftovers. Hungry for a solo culinary adventure? I’ve got you covered with all the spicy, creamy, and boozy details. Let’s cook up some magic, just for you. Ready to get saucy?
Vodka Pasta: Single Serving Symphony
This delightful vodka pasta recipe transforms a simple evening into an Italian soirée. Indulge in the rich, creamy sauce that’s flirtatious and just tipsy enough to make you giggle. Perfect for solo diners who know that little moments deserve big flavors.
- Cooking method: Stovetop
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine type: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
- Boil 2 ounces of penne pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 small clove minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Carefully pour in 1/4 cup vodka. Simmer until reduced by half, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is light pink and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
- Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy your single-serving Italian feast!
Suggestions
- Alternative Ingredients: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Use gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Garnishing Options: Add a sprinkle of crushed black pepper or a dash of chili flakes for extra spice. Grate a bit of lemon zest on top for a zesty twist.
- Cooking Tips: Ensure the vodka is fully reduced to avoid funky flavors. Always taste the sauce before adding the pasta to adjust seasoning as needed.