Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delicious twist on a classic Italian favorite! This Vegan Pasta Alla Vodka is not only creamy and rich but also incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish promises to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious vodka-infused sauce that’s completely plant-based! Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home—your friends and family will be begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. While waiting, prepare all your ingredients by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Carefully pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer and reduce by half, which helps cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently.
- At this point, add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir the coconut cream into the tomato sauce, creating a creamy and rich texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta will do, opt for shapes like penne or rigatoni that hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Vodka: The vodka is key to enhancing the flavors of the dish. It helps to bring out the richness of the tomatoes and adds a unique depth that you won't want to miss.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer gently after adding the crushed tomatoes. This will meld the flavors beautifully, making each bite deliciously complex.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add a bit more coconut cream. You can also substitute with cashew cream for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining your noodles. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh Basil is a Must: Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its aromatic flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead of time, keep the pasta and sauce separate until you're ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 582kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
