Authentic Pasta Alla Vodka

Ingredients

• Pasta (1 pound)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Vodka (1/2 cup)
• Tomato sauce (2 cups)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later use.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is aromatic, typically about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the vodka, stirring continuously, and let it cook for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure every strand is beautifully coated with the vodka sauce.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
7. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy your journey to Italy!