# Penne Alla Vodka
Great and smooth recipe that even a pasta hater enjoys

## ingredients
* 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1/2 small onion chopped finely
* 1 clove garlic minced
* 1/4 cup vodka
* 1/4 cup tomato paste see note
* 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
* Salt & pepper to taste
* Fresh basil, sliced thin optional (to taste)
* Freshly grated parmesan cheese optional (to taste)

## steps
1. Boil a generously salted pot of water for the penne and cook it al dente according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, add the oil and butter to a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes or until softened (ok if it lightly browns).
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the vodka and let the sauce bubble for 30 seconds or so.
5. Stir in the tomato paste until you've got a smooth mixture.
6. Stir in the cream, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the sauce warm through.
7. Season with salt & pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh basil if using. Toss with the drained pasta (if needed, thin the sauce out a bit with a splash of hot pasta water prior to draining it). 
8. Serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.

## notes
* Makes ~4 servings (I recommend doubling, as it keeps well)