Penne Ala Vodka
Creamy penne pasta infused with vodka, basil, and crispy prosciutto, offering rich flavors and a smooth texture, perfect for a satisfying dinner for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If using bacon or prosciutto, cook first to remove excess fat and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped scallions and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vodka and cook until slightly reduced, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil, simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle pink peppercorns over the dish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using high-quality vodka. If you want a slightly smoky taste, substitute prosciutto with smoked bacon. Fresh basil enhances the dish, but dried basil can work in a pinch. Adjust the amount of crushed tomatoes based on your preference for sauce consistency. For a unique twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Penne Ala Vodka with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of additional fresh basil on top just before serving adds a lovely touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine, enhancing the creamy flavors. For more delicious Italian recipes, explore our pasta section.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the pasta and make the sauce clumpy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne Ala Vodka contains roughly 1415 calories, with 8g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 142g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. Cook the penne just before serving to maintain its texture. Reheat the sauce gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of Penne Ala Vodka?
Absolutely! You can omit the prosciutto or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of butter. To add depth, include sautéed mushrooms and spinach. This maintains the richness of the dish while making it suitable for vegetarians.
What type of vodka is best for this recipe?
A mid-range vodka works well; you don't need top-shelf for cooking. Look for a vodka that is smooth and clean-tasting, as the quality will impact the flavor of the sauce. Avoid flavored vodkas, as they can alter the dish's intended taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).