Send Vodka!

One of my Facebook updates a few weeks ago caused a stir. I commented that I was making pasta with Vodka sauce, and within moments I had a box full of emails asking for the recipe. I intended to get it sent out ages ago, but then life intervened, and I got lazy, and I hate typing recipes when I don't even have a decent picture of the meal to go with it. Since I didn't bother to take a picture when I made it, or when I was eating it, I'll have to post without one. The recipe is super simple, and super delicious.

Vodka Tomato Sauce for Pasta

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

In a large skillet over medium heat combine olive oil and butter until butter is melted. Add onions and saute until onions begin to turn translucent. Add chopped garlic and cook 1 minute more, do not let garlic brown.

1/2 to 3/4 cup vodka
1 can tomato puree (I try to use Muir Glen because it is sweet)
3/4 cup heavy cream
salt to taste
fresh ground pepper

Add vodka to onion mixture and cook 30 seconds or so. Stir in tomato puree. Cook another 3 minutes or until heated. Carefully and gradually stir in heavy cream, add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer, but don't let boil uncontrollably.

I sometimes stir in about 1/2 to 1 cup Parmesan cheese at this point, or I serve the Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta and sauce.

This sauce is wonderful served over most any pasta. It is divine on cheese raviolis. (Especially during Lent!) My kids love to dip garlic toast or french bread in it as well.

I have frozen any extra and it reheats beautifully. You can stir all the pasta into the sauce and serve it that way as well. Whatever floats your boat.
Enjoy!