Easy Penne alla Vodka

Serves: 4 Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1-2 tsp calabrian chilis, depending on desired spice level

• 6 oz tomato paste

• 3 tbsp vodka

• 1 and 1/4 cups heavy cream

• 1/4 lb grated parmesan

• 1 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions:

1. Boil the pasta in heavily salted water until al dente, about 7 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water.

2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium low heat. Add in the chopped onion. Stir these occasionally until very translucent but not browning, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Mix in the garlic and calabrian chilis, cooking until fragrant and the garlic is just slightly browning.

4. Add the tomato paste to the pan, and combine until homogenous with the other ingredients. Stir somewhat frequently so it adopts a brick-like color without any burning.

5. Add the vodka to the edge of pan (so it doesn't evaporate too quickly) and incorporate it into the paste. Heat for a couple minutes to remove any smell or taste of alcohol.

6. Stir in the cream in small portions and fully incorporate it into the sauce before adding more to prevent clumping.

7. Stir in the parmesan, allowing it to melt, and then add pasta water as you see fit to loosen the sauce. Combine with the penne.

8. Enjoy your Easy Penne alla Vodka!