Mediterranean Diet Creamy Vodka Pasta
Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this indulgent yet health-conscious Creamy Vodka Pasta recipe. Made with hearty whole wheat pasta and a rich, velvety sauce that gets its creamy texture from Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, this dish is a lighter twist on a classic favorite. Sautéed garlic, red onion, and a touch of red pepper flakes lend a bold and aromatic base, while fresh basil and baby spinach bring a burst of freshness and nutrition. The addition of vodka enhances the depth of the tomato-based sauce, perfectly complemented by freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish. Quick to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 0.5 cup vodka
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.75 cup Greek yogurt
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for an additional minute to release their flavor.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Stir the mixture well, then let it come to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the chopped basil leaves and Greek yogurt, ensuring the yogurt is fully incorporated to create a creamy consistency. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and evenly distributed.
Fold in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve the pasta warm, optionally garnished with additional basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your Mediterranean Diet Creamy Vodka Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1884 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.5 g | 85% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.5 g | 132% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 101 mg | 34% | |
| Sodium | 5294 mg | 230% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.0 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.5 g | 130% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.6 g | ||
| Protein | 92.1 g | 184% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1930 mg | 148% | |
| Iron | 19.1 mg | 106% | |
| Potassium | 4092 mg | 87% | |
*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.
