Pasta with Creamy Vodka Sauce

This creamy vodka pasta is an indulgent dish combining succulent shrimp and a rich vodka-infused sauce. Perfect for a comforting and elaborate dinner, this recipe pairs spaghetti with tender shrimp cooked in a robust tomato and vodka sauce. The heat from the chili pepper is perfectly balanced by the richness of cream and cheese, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. The rosemary and garlic add depth, while a hint of butter enriches the sauce, making it smooth and velvety. This dish offers an exquisite fusion of textures and flavors, ideal for sharing with family or friends. Vodka's sharpness mellows with cooking, giving way to a pleasantly sweet undertone. Not only does this dish taste exquisite, but it also presents beautifully, garnished with a touch of chives. A quick and elegant meal for any special occasion or a delightful everyday treat, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Dive into a plate of heartwarming flavors in just under half an hour.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g spaghetti
400 g canned diced tomatoes
400 g shrimp
150 ml heavy cream
100 g hard cheese, grated
70 ml vodka

Spices & Sauces:

1 chili pepper
2 cloves garlic
2 sprigs rosemary
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter for frying

Garnishes:

A handful of chopped chives

Preparation Time

Total Time: 25 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once ready, drain and set aside.
In a pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rosemary sprigs, garlic cloves, and chopped chili.
Sauté the mixture until the garlic is golden and the rosemary releases its aroma. Remove the rosemary and blend the sautéed garlic and chili with the diced tomatoes until smooth.
Heat the pan again with olive oil and pour in the tomato blend. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the vodka to the tomato sauce, allowing it to cook off the alcohol and leaving behind a mellow sharpness. Stir well.
Gradually mix in the butter, heavy cream, and grated hard cheese. Taste as you go, adjusting flavors as needed.
The vodka initially gives a sharp taste, but as you continue to heat, it evolves into a sweet, slightly spicy sauce.
Season the completed sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
In a separate pan with butter, sauté the shrimp until pink and cooked through.
Serve the hot sauce over the cooked spaghetti, and top with the shrimp.
To finish, sprinkle chopped chives over the dish for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serve immediately to enjoy while the flavors are robust and warm.
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
For a creamier sauce, slightly increase the amount of cream or use full-fat options.
Vodka is essential for authenticity but can be omitted or reduced for a non-alcoholic version.
Try substituting tiger shrimp with chicken or tofu for different dietary options.
Reduce the chili pepper for a milder version without losing its unique taste.
Ensure the sauce is simmering gently to meld the flavors without burning.
For a vegetarian version, eliminate the shrimp and introduce more vegetables like bell peppers.
The dish is deeply aromatic, flavored with hints of rosemary, making it a perfect delight for any gathering.

Tips

Alternative Ingredients: Swap hard cheese for Parmesan or Asiago.
Cooking Technique: For a thicker sauce, reduce the liquid more gradually.
Spiciness Level: Adjust the chili based on personal heat preferences.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
Protein: 35 g
Fats: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g

Variations

Swap shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or sautéed mushrooms as a vegetarian alternative.
Consider using gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
Replace canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh Italian salad.
Pair with a light white wine such as a Pinot Grigio for an authentic touch.

Best Places

Osteria Francescana - World-renowned Italian restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional dishes. Location: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena MO, Italy.
Joe’s of Westlake - Iconic eatery known for its old-school charm and classic Italian dishes. Location: 11 Glenwood Ave, Daly City, CA, USA.
Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto - Cozy spot with authentic Roman cuisine and generous portions. Location: Via del Casaletto, 45, 00151 Rome, Italy.
Osteria Santo Spirito - Quintessential stop for hearty pasta dishes in a vibrant setting. Location: Piazza Santo Spirito, 16/R, 50125 Florence, Italy.
L’Artusi - Contemporary Italian restaurant famed for its sophisticated dishes. Location: 228 W 10th St, New York, NY, USA.
La Gavroche - Esteemed destination offering refined Italian classics. Location: 43 Upper Brook Street, London W1K 7QR, UK.
Le Bernardin - Celebrated for its seafood-centric Italian dishes with a Parisian touch. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY, USA.
Bottega Louie - Known for its lively atmosphere and comprehensive Italian menu. Location: 700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Da Enzo al 29 - Offers rustic meals in a charming, unpretentious setting. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Rome, Italy.
Osteria Mozza - Fusion of classic and contemporary serving pasta lovers’ dreams. Location: 6602 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA.