'Nduja alla Vodka

Difficulty Level: Easy

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serving Size: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. penne or any short pasta

• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp. tomato paste

• 2 tbsp. 'nduja spread

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 cup vodka

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated

• Basil for garnish

• 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 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, 'nduja 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 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 'nduja sauce and 1/4 cup pasta water. Toss on medium-high 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 basil and more Parmigiano.