Penne Russo ala Vodka with a Basil Cream Sauce

I’ve made this recipe for our rotational dinner party a number of times. It is always a hit.

ingredients

1 lb dry penne pasta
1 teaspoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 ounces prosciutto (or any other cured ham such as Seranno or Virginia, chopped)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped finely
1 (28 ounce) can peeled tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
6 fluid ounces vodka
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaf, chopped
salt, to taste

1
Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling lightly salted water for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente and then drain.
2
Heat oil in large skillet or wok over medium heat. Saute garlic, prosciutto, and red pepper flakes for 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes and tomato paste and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in vodka and cream and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and chopped basil. Add pasta and toss until evenly coated. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Source: RecipeZaar (Karolyn)