Spicy Vodka Pasta
Tender pasta twirls are enveloped in a luscious blend of sweet onions, aromatic basil, and zesty oregano, all simmered to perfection in a creamy tomato base. Each forkful offers a harmonious balance of fiery spice and indulgent creaminess, creating a culinary experience that's as satisfying as it is unforgettable. Perfect for those craving a little kick in their pasta repertoire, this dish promises to ignite the senses and leave taste buds tingling with delight.
Cook Time: 35 Minutes
Prep Time: 15-20 Minutes
Serves: 6-8 bowls of pasta
Ingredients
- 1 box of Pasta (I recommend rigatoni)
- 1 sweet onion diced
- 1 can of tomato paste
- 1 cup of parmesan cheese
- ½ cup of heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup of pasta water
- ⅓ cup of vodka
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 3 tsp of butter
Spices
- 1 tsp of dried basil
- 1 tsp of dried oregano
- 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp of salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup of spinach
- 2 italian sausage links sliced
Instructions
Begin by filling a pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and pasta. Cook pasta according to the package instructions.
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in 1 cup of sweet onion and sauté until the onions turn slightly brown around the edges. Stir in basil, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes, allowing them to infuse for 1-2 minutes. Next, incorporate the tomato paste and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously.
Pour in ⅓ cup of vodka, allowing it to simmer until fully evaporated. Then, add in the ½ cup of heavy whipping cream, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes a bright orange hue. To further enrich the sauce, add in 3 tablespoons of butter and a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, toss the freshly cooked pasta in the creamy vodka sauce until well coated. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful finishing touch. Enjoy your spicy vodka pasta!