Capellini alla vodka

Difficulty Level: Easy

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serving Size: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. capellini

• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 6 oz. tomato paste

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 cup vodka

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated

• 4 oz. fresh mozzarella, chopped or cubed

• 2 tbsp. Italian parsley, finely chopped

• Pasta water as needed

  
  

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan and sauté the chopped shallot until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for a further 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the tomato paste and salt to the pan. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the tomato paste deepens in color.

4. Add 1/4 cup of vodka to deglaze the pan. Stir until the vodka has fully evaporated, about 1-2 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmigiano. Add more salt to taste.

6. Once the water is boiling, add plenty of salt. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

7. Strain the pasta and add it to the pan along with the vodka sauce and 1/4 cup pasta water. Toss on medium heat until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Add more pasta water as needed, 1/4 cup at a time.

8. Plate and top with fresh mozzarella and Italian parsley.