Penne alla Vodka (Original video)

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups diced onion
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vodka
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (28 ounces) whole or crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• Penne pasta
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes.
2. Add salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper to the onions. Stir occasionally until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes. Pour in vodka and cook to deglaze the pan.
4. Stir in tomato paste, then add whole or crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, adding salt to taste.
5. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the sauce off heat. Add cooked pasta and mix well. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
7. Serve garnished with Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!