Low Sodium Penne with Vodka Sauce
Indulge in the creamy, flavorful goodness of *Low Sodium Penne with Vodka Sauce*, an irresistible twist on the classic Italian dish that's perfect for those watching their salt intake. This recipe combines heart-healthy whole wheat penne with a rich, velvety vodka sauce made from unsalted crushed tomatoes, a touch of heavy cream, and a delicate blend of garlic and herbs. The alcohol in the vodka simmers away, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Finished with fresh basil and parsley, this pasta is a wholesome, vibrant, and guilt-free option for your next dinner. Quick to prepare in just 45 minutes, this low sodium pasta recipe is an ideal choice for a cozy, health-conscious weeknight meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, unsalted
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 cup unsalted pasta cooking water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it is translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Stir well to combine.
Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol in the vodka to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream to the tomato mixture, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce.
Add the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as necessary; remember to keep it low sodium by not adding any salt.
Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta until well coated with the vodka sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
Remove from heat and toss in the fresh basil and parsley.
Serve the pasta immediately while hot, garnished with additional basil or parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3086 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 115.8 g | 148% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.5 g | 262% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 240 mg | 80% | |
| Sodium | 193 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 299.6 g | 109% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.8 g | 142% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.0 g | ||
| Protein | 54.3 g | 109% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 467 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 23.1 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 3844 mg | 82% | |
*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.
