Shelly's Recipe

CHERRY TOMATO VODKA PASTA

Category: Pasta

1 1/2 pints ripe, cherry tomatoes, halved
2 large garlic cloves, peeled & minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red hot chile pepper minced (optional)
1/3 cup vodka
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Sea salt
Cracked black pepper
1 pound dried pasta, cooked al dente, drained
Garnish: Fresh Basil Leaves and Grated Parmesan Cheese

While pasta is cooking, in a heavy saucepan heat the olive oil and add the tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes begin to break down, soften, and release their juices, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic to the pan and cook another minute or two. Add the vodka and chile pepper if using, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and continue to cook another 3 or 4 minutes. Add the cream and cook until thickened. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.

While the sauce is cooking, cook your pasta until it is just "al dente". Drain, and return the pasta to the hot pot. Add the sauce and toss well to combine. Serve topped with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serves 4