Low Sodium Penne alla Vodka
Indulge in a creamy, comforting classic with this Low Sodium Penne alla Vodka recipe, specially crafted for those mindful of salt intake. This lighter, heart-healthy twist on the beloved Italian dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in a velvety tomato-vodka sauce made with no-salt-added tomato sauce, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Aromatic garlic, sautéed onions, and a hint of red pepper flakes bring depth to the dish, while Parmesan cheese and fresh basil elevate each bite with irresistible flavor. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes, this low sodium pasta recipe is a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners or small gatherings. Serve it steaming hot for an unforgettable meal that satisfies without compromising on taste.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta, whole wheat if preferred
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.5 cup vodka
- 15 ounces no salt added tomato sauce
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with the olive oil.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour the vodka into the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
Stir in the no salt added tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporate the chopped basil leaves.
Season with ground black pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2801 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 120.4 g | 154% | |
| Saturated Fat | 61.9 g | 310% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 282 mg | 94% | |
| Sodium | 804 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 301.0 g | 109% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.9 g | 110% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.0 g | ||
| Protein | 70.4 g | 141% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 680 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 18.7 mg | 104% | |
| Potassium | 2554 mg | 54% | |
*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.
