Penne a La Vodka (With a Little Kick!)

This Penne a la Vodka recipe is better than any version I have ever had in a restaurant. I made it for my son's first birthday party (to keep the grown-ups happy) and it was a big hit. It has a spicy little kick from the red pepper flakes, but that is easily adjusted to suit different tastes. From "The Kosher Palette" cookbook.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 16  ounces penne pasta
• 5  tablespoons butter
• 1  small onion, minced
• 2 -3  garlic cloves, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1⁄2 cup vodka
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
• 1  cup heavy cream
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  cup  grated parmesan cheese
•  pepper

Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente, drain and reserve in a large serving bowl.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add onion, garlic and red pepper flakes. Saute for 3 minutes.
3. Pour in vodka and stir, then allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes, then simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cream and salt and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Add parmesan cheese and mix in thoroughly, then season with pepper to taste.
7. Pour sauce over pasta and toss to coat well. Serve immediately.