Penne With Sun-Dried Tomato Vodka Sauce

mama smurf's Note:

Found in The Best Simple Recipes. Top pasta with grated parmesan for added flavor.

• Total Time: 25 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped fine
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato packed in oil, rinsed, patted dry and minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 lb penne or 1 lb fusilli

Directions:

1. Bring 4 quarts water to boil in a large pot. Meanwhile, process half of tomatoes in food processor until smooth. Transfer to bowl. Stir in vodka and remaining tomatoes.
2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add onion and sun-dried tomatoes and cook until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, red pepper flakes and italian seasoning and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in tomato-vodka mixture and 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer until slightly thickened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add cream and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
3. Meanwhile, add 1 tablespoon salt and pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, drain pasta, and return to pot. Add sauce and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper. Serve.

Reviews

[Lori Mama]

Yum! I added an extra clove of garlic and used half/half in place of the cream. Made for New Kids on the Block Tag game. :)