Ingredients
- Orecchiette pasta (1/2 lb)
- Butter (4 tbsp)
- Red onion (1 small)
- Garlic (6 cloves)
- Tomato paste (1/2 cup)
- Vodka (1/4 cup)
- Red pepper flakes (1 1/2 tsp)
- Heavy cream (2 cups)
- Pasta water (1/4 cup)
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup)
- Basil leaves
Instructions
- Boil Pasta (The Pasta Preparation): Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente, ensuring it retains a slight firmness to the bite. Salt the water generously before cooking the pasta; it should taste like the ocean.
- Heat Butter (The Butter Base): Heat the butter over medium-low heat in a large, deep sauté pan, allowing it to melt slowly and evenly.
- Sauté Onions (The Onion Sauté): Add the finely diced onions and season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic (The Garlic Addition): Add the thinly sliced or minced garlic, stir, and cook until just fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomato Paste (The Tomato Transformation): Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring occasionally, until it darkens in color, about 5 minutes. This caramelizes the tomato paste and deepens its flavor.
- Deglaze with Vodka (The Vodka Venture): Add the vodka and cook until it evaporates, about 1 minute. This deglazes the pan and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Add Heavy Cream and Red Pepper Flakes (The Creamy Kick): Add the heavy cream and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring well occasionally, for 2 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Pasta and Pasta Water (The Pasta Perfection): Add the drained cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, and toss to coat, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Add Parmesan (The Parmesan Perfection): Turn off the heat, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until it melts and incorporates into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Serve (The Serving Sensation): Serve immediately with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Salt pasta water well.
- Don’t burn garlic.
- Use pasta water for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Fusion