Absolut Creamy Goodness

Add heavy cream to your list of things to have handy. It makes a last minute vodka sauce a reality, and it's great poured over strawberries or swirled into coffee. My vodka sauce isn't overly rich, and the alcohol cooks out. It's great as a main or side.

Penne alla Vodka

2 T olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp dried red pepper flakes
1 T fresh chopped basil or 1 tsp dry
2 T fresh Italian parsley, chopped
1/2 c freshly grated Parmagiano Reggiano
1/2 c heavy cream
1/4 c vodka
1 T butter
salt and pepper to taste
12 oz penne or similar pasta, cooked al dente
extra parsley and cheese for garnishing

Heat the oil over medium heat in a large saute pan or pot. Add the onions, toss to coat with oil, and cover for 10 minutes to sweat them. When the onions have softened, add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes and their sauce, crushing them with your hands. Toss in the bay leaf and red pepper and simmer for about 15 minutes. Add the the basil, parsley, Parmagiano, cream, and vodka and simmer another 15 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, and finish by swirling in the butter. Toss with the pasta, and try not to eat it all at once.

Serves 4.