This vodka pasta recipe differs from others where you actually light the alcohol on fire (as opposed to slowly simmering the sauce).  It’s a very easy and quick recipe and tastes really really good.  Just be careful not to get burned (or set your kitchen on fire) because the flames come up pretty high.

Vodka Penne Recipe

makes 2 (main course) to 4 (entrée) servings

6 slices prosciutto, cut into strips 1/4 inch wide

2 cups uncooked penne pasta

1 cup whipping cream

1/4 cup vodka

4 tbsp tomato sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

salt and pepper

fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

Bring a pot of salted water to boil over high heat.  Add the pasta and cook uncovered until al dente for 8 to 10 minutes.  Meanwhile, over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large saute pan.  Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute.  Add the prosciutto and cook, stirring for 2 minutes.  Add the vodka.  Very carefully, using a lit match, tilt the pan slightly and light the vodka on fire at the very edge of the pan keeping your hands as far away from the pan as possible.  Be very careful, as the flames spread immediately and come up quite high.  Holding the handle of the pan, shake the pan gently back and forth until all of the vodka is burnt off and the fire goes out by itself.  Be careful not to spill any of the vodka from the pan.  The edges of the prosciutto will be nicely crisp.  Then add the cream and simmer for 1 minute.  Add the tomato sauce and pepper to taste and stir for 1 minute.  Then add the drained pasta, mix well, and serve immediately with sliced fresh basil as garnish.