Penne alla Vodka

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until just al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup pasta water.

Meanwhile, melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until very soft.

Add garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds.

Add tomato paste. Cook the tomato paste for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it darkens from bright red to a deeper brick-red color.

Carefully add the vodka. Stir and simmer for approximately 2-3 minutes until the sharp alcohol aroma dissipates and the liquid reduces substantially.

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and orange-red.

Add the drained penne. Toss thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the pasta.

Remove from high heat. Add Parmesan gradually while tossing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add additional pasta water if needed. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan and optional basil.