Spicy Lumache alla Vodka

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Serving Size: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. lumache or rigatoni

• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 6 oz. tomato paste

• 1 tbsp. crushed Calabrian chili pepper

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 cup vodka

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated

• Basil for garnish

Directions:

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

2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over low heat and sauté the chopped shallot until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a further 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the tomato paste, crushed Calabrian chili and salt to the pan. Stir and let sit on medium-low heat 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 grated Parmigiano.

6. Once the water is boiling, add plenty of salt. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Reserve 3/4 cup pasta water.

7. Add the pasta to a large sauté pan along with the spicy vodka sauce and 1/4 cup of pasta water. Toss on high heat until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Add more pasta water as needed, 1/4 cup at a time.

8. Top with more grated Parmigiano and basil.