Pasta alla Vecchia Bettola (Old Tavern Pasta) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne rigate or similar)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for another minute.
5. Remove skillet from heat and add vodka. Return skillet to heat and stir until vodka is evaporated, about 3 minutes.
6. Add tomatoes and their juice and crush tomatoes with a wooden spoon. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often.
7. Stir in cream and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until pasta is heated through and coated in sauce.
9. Remove pasta from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Top with chopped basil, if using.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Verdict:

Pasta alla Vecchia Bettola is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for any night of the week. The creamy tomato vodka sauce is rich and flavorful, and the pasta is the perfect vehicle for it. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions:

For a complete meal, serve Pasta alla Vecchia Bettola with a side salad and garlic bread. This pasta dish also goes well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon. Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop and make a great quick and easy lunch or dinner.