This Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta is a tasty twist on your favorite spaghetti dish! The creamy vodka sauce meets flavorful pesto for a delicious mix that’s hard to resist.
Seriously, who knew pasta could get even better? I love adding a sprinkle of cheese and some fresh basil on top—instant fancy dinner vibes, right? 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works well here. If you have a gluten-free diet, try using gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or lentils. I personally love using whole wheat pasta for added fiber!
Vodka: The vodka adds a unique flavor and helps to bond the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, a splash of white grape juice or extra vegetable broth can substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream. It’s creamy but still keeps the dish rich.
Basil Pesto: Homemade pesto is fantastic, but store-bought is totally fine if you’re short on time. You might also swap it with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste and texture. If you’re vegetarian, ensure it’s made without animal rennet. Nutritional yeast can be a nice dairy-free alternative!
How Do I Safely Cook with Vodka?
Cooking with vodka can seem tricky, but it’s all about being cautious yet confident. When adding vodka, let it simmer for several minutes. This reduces the alcohol and leaves behind rich flavors.
- Heat the skillet to medium before adding vodka—this prevents it from catching fire.
- Don’t rush this step; letting it simmer helps concentrate the sauce.
- If you’re nervous about flames reaching for vodka, use a long-handled spoon to stir.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll create a delightful Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta that’s both satisfying and delicious! Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish for a delicious pasta meal that feels like a treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni or penne pasta, cooking according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and translucent. It’s important not to let them brown, so keep an eye on them!
3. Add the Vodka:
Carefully add the vodka to the skillet. Watch for any splatter! Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half. This step infuses the sauce with a rich flavor.
4. Stir in the Tomato Sauce:
Next, add the tomato sauce to the skillet and mix well. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend together nicely.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Lower the heat and incorporate the heavy cream and basil pesto into the sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Season and Combine:
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the cooked pasta, tossing it gently in the sauce until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and becomes part of the delicious sauce. This adds an extra layer of richness!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta hot, and don’t forget to sprinkle more Parmesan on top along with fresh chopped basil or parsley for that lovely finishing touch!
Now, enjoy your creamy, vibrant Pesto Vodka Sauce Pasta that’s packed with bold flavors and irresistible richness! 🍝✨
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well. Look for varieties made from brown rice, chickpeas, or lentils for a delicious and satisfying meal without gluten.
What To Do If I Don’t Have Vodka?
If you prefer not to use vodka, you can substitute with a splash of white grape juice or vegetable broth. It will change the flavor slightly but will still create a tasty sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or water to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you want a fully vegetarian dish. You can also use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative!
