Description
Onions, celery, garlic, tomatoes, vodka, and half & half gives this vodka sauce its rich, delicious flavor. Served with or without meat, it’s a sure winner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups onion (chopped finely)
- 1 cup celery (chopped finely)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3/4 cup vodka
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup half and half (or cream)
- 1 pound whole grain pasta (see notes)
For a with-meat version:
- 1/2 pound ham or prosciutto (thinly sliced and diced)
- 4 slices of bacon (diced)
For garnish:
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- In a large skillet warm olive oil and cook onion, celery, and garlic over moderate heat. Stir until softened and onions are translucent.
- Add ham and bacon (optional and see notes) and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add vodka and simmer until liquid is almost evaporated (about 5-6 minutes).
- Add tomatoes, cayenne, and herbs . Simmer another 10 minutes.
- Add half and half or cream. Simmer over low heat for about 3 minutes. If you want a bit spicier sauce add some additional cayenne pepper.
- While sauce is cooking, bring 5 quarts of water to boil. Salt with several pinches of kosher or sea salt. Cook the pasta of your choice until al dente (tender but still firm).
- Drain pasta. Serve with sauce and garnish with parmesan cheese and some chopped basil or parsley.
Notes
We recommend using organic ingredients when possible.
If you’re using the with-meat option look for humanely-raised, pastured organic pork products. And if you want a heartier, smoky flavor add 4 strips of diced bacon with the ham.
All different kinds of whole wheat pasta work well with this wonderful sauce, so feel free to mix it up or use what you have on hand. My favorites are penne, rigatoni, and orecchiette (pictured).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian
