A delightful pasta dish featuring a creamy tomato vodka sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the pasta's flavor.
Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the onion from browning too much.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Pour in the vodka and let it simmer until reduced by half.
This step helps to cook off the alcohol while retaining the flavor.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8 minutes.
Crush the tomatoes slightly with a spoon for a smoother sauce.
Transfer the tomato mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the sauce to the skillet.
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
Stir in the cream and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Ensure the cream is well mixed for a uniform sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and fresh basil to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Gently toss to avoid breaking the pasta.
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.