Spicy Rigatoni Vodka

Eleanor Craig

This spicy rigatoni vodka is a modern twist on a classic Italian-American favorite. Infusing the creamy richness of traditional vodka sauce with a tantalizing kick of spice, this dish promises to elevate your pasta experience. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings bowls

Calories 646 kcal

Ingredients

400 grams rigatoni pasta - preferably made from durum wheat for best texture
2 tablespoons olive oil - extra virgin for enhanced flavor
3 cloves garlic - finely chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - to taste, adjust for desired heat level
1 cup passata or crushed tomatoes (tomato puree with seeds removed) - use San Marzano variety for authenticity
½ cup heavy cream (also called thickened cream) - ensures a rich, velvety sauce
¼ cup vodka - premium quality, optional for depth of flavor
½ cup Parmesan cheese - freshly grated for best flavor
1 pinch salt - to taste, season as preferred
1 pinch ground black pepper - to taste, season as preferred
¼ cup basil - fresh, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for another minute to bloom their flavor.
Pour in the pureed tomatoes, and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add vodka and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off while enhancing the sauce's depth.
Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream, mixing thoroughly for a consistent color.
Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat completely. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with the same amount of water mixed with a squeeze of lemon. Enhance caramelization by slightly letting the sauce stick to the pan before stirring.

Nutrition

Calories: 646kcalCarbohydrates: 83gProtein: 19gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 44mgSodium: 331mgPotassium: 475mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 903IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg

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