Vodka Pasta is a luxurious yet simple Italian dish where al dente penne meets a silky sauce of tomato paste, cream, and vodka. The base is built by sautéing onions and garlic, then emulsifying tomato paste with vodka and cream. Reserved pasta water ensures the sauce clings perfectly, creating a luscious, restaurant-style finish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This water is crucial for loosening the sauce later and ensuring it coats the pasta evenly.
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Build the base
Heat olive oil and butter in a wide pan over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent, without browning. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, forming the aromatic foundation of the sauce.
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Cook the tomato paste
Add tomato paste to the pan, stirring constantly for 3–4 minutes. This deepens its colour and flavour while removing raw acidity. The paste should coat the fat evenly and become slightly darker, creating a rich base for the cream.
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Add vodka
Pour in vodka, stirring continuously and scraping the pan’s base. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the alcohol smell dissipates. This step integrates flavour and ensures the sauce emulsifies smoothly without separating.
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Finish the sauce
Lower the heat and add fresh cream, red chilli flakes, black pepper, and the remaining salt. Stir gently until the sauce becomes uniform and creamy. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve a consistency that clings to the pasta – silky but not watery.
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Combine and serve
Add cooked penne to the sauce. Toss over low heat for 1–2 minutes to coat each piece. The sauce should cling without pooling at the bottom. Serve immediately for a hot, rich, and balanced dish.