Meal Planning Night 2: Pasta alla Vodka

Yet another recipe from Pioneer Woman was in the works for Tuesday night.  Pasta alla Vodka is something that I've made, but looked yummy when I saw it on an episode of Pioneer Woman (yes I record them and watch them when I get home from work).  I mean who doesn't love marinara and heavy cream?!  And vodka of course, but since I can't currently drink it I can resort to cooking with it.  This meal turned out pretty decent, Spencer of course wished it would have had meat but loved it otherwise.  My only qualm was that there were too many onions! Onions lovers you would be fine with the recipe as it stand, but I just am not a fan.  Next time I would only use about half an onion and maybe use a grater to make the onion into a less bulky consistency.....

Spencer had a football game, so this was thrown together quickly after and served by itself! Some chicken in the mix would probably be yummy! Here's the recipe......

Ingredients

• 1 pound Pasta

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

• 2 Tablespoons Butter

• 1 whole Medium Onion, Chopped Finely

• 2 cloves (to 3 Cloves) Garlic, Chopped

• 3/4 cups (to 1 Cup) Vodka

• 1 can (About 14 Oz.) Tomato Puree

• 1 cup Heavy Cream

• 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes

• 1/4 teaspoon (to 1/2 Teaspoon) Salt

•  Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste

• 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

Preparation Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions, being careful not to overcook.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. When butter is melted, add in chopped onion and garlic. Stir and allow to cook for two minutes. Pour in vodka. Stir and cook for three minutes. Add in tomato puree and stir.

Reduce heat to low and stir in cream. Allow to simmer, being careful not to overheat. Stir in red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.

Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water in case sauce is too thick. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Splash in a little water if it needs it. Stir in Parmesan cheese.

Pour mixture into large serving bowl. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese.

T