Low Fat Penne with Vodka Sauce
Indulge guilt-free with this creamy and flavorful Low Fat Penne with Vodka Sauce, a lighter twist on the classic Italian dish. Featuring whole wheat penne pasta and a silky tomato-vodka sauce enriched with low-fat half-and-half, this recipe balances indulgence with health-conscious choices without sacrificing taste. Aromatic garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of spicy red pepper flakes elevate the vibrant crushed tomato base, while a hint of vodka adds depth and sophistication. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy and nutritious dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Pair it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 0.25 cup vodka
- 0.5 cup low-fat half-and-half
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to brown the garlic.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the vodka to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the low-fat half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the cooked penne to the skillet, and toss until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1870 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.0 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.6 g | 43% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 2557 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 302.9 g | 110% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.7 g | 142% | |
| Total Sugars | 49.9 g | ||
| Protein | 66.5 g | 133% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 684 mg | 53% | |
| Iron | 19.1 mg | 106% | |
| Potassium | 3425 mg | 73% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
