This sexy little pasta dish is a quick one that is impressive for a first date, dinner party or a casual Wednesday night! This sauce has a little bite (thank you vodka!) but is still creamy and rich. 

First note- use ALL the Vodka! It seems like a lot but it makes the sauce. This is not the same with chicken broth as a sub… and remember the alcohol cooks off so no worries to those who choose not to partake. Secondly, I don’t use heavy cream often but when I do, it is in this sauce! I won’t lie to you; this is not a “lite” meal but it will make you and those you share it with fall into that happy belly feeling. Pair this with a nice red blend, maybe a salad if you’re feeling healthy and have fun cooking this one!

Directions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with EVOO and butter. Add finely chop onion and garlic.
2. Once hot, add onion and sauté for 5 minutes
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to one minute
4. Add tomato paste. Add red pepper flake to taste, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring to break down paste and release flavors about 5 minutes.
5. Add fresh diced tomatoes and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Bring a salted pasta water to boil and add noodles of choice.
7. Take skillet off burner and add Vodka (remember do this off the heat! No one likes penciled in eyebrows).
8. Return to heat and cook of alcohol about 2-3 minutes until sauce bubbles.
9. Add about two tablespoons of salt pasta water to the cup of cream and stir. This ensures your sauce doesn’t break!
10. Turn down to medium low heat and slowly add cream to the vodka tomato sauce stirring constantly (this is where you can involve the spouse or kiddo to help out!).
11. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer and occasionally stir.
12. Season with more red pepper, S&P and Italian seasoning.
13. Once pasta is ready, drain and add to sauce. Stir to cover every noodle.
14. Serve with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. If you have fresh burrata cheese or mozzarella feel free to plop a little ball of cheesy goodness on top too!