Light(er) Smoky Vodka Sauce Pasta

I was on a mission to create a vodka sauce recipe that’s lighter, but doesn’t sacrifice depth of flavor, and this is it! While I’m trying to eat lighter, there’s no way I am making any attempt to eat less pasta, and you shouldn’t either. It’s creamy (without heavy cream), smoky and super garlicky. It’s cheesy and filling, but isn’t loaded with butter and cream that will weigh you down after a pasta dinner. In fact, I just made this one for lunch! With a toddler helping! It’s that quick and simple. I love using the little corkscrew fusilli for vodka sauce, as it makes each bite exciting. You’ll love this one for a warming winter dish that still makes you feel great inside and out. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Level: Easy

Ingredients - serves 4

  • 12 oz pasta of choice, but I LOVE Fusilli for this

  • 5 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 1 shallot, minced

  • 1 tbsp. butter

  • 1/4 cup tomato paste

  • 1/4 cup vodka

  • 1/2 cup half and half

  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan

  • 1.5 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp. dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper

  • Optional: fresh chopped parsley for serving

 

  1. Cook the pasta as described on the package. BUT - this is important - before you drain, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. We’ll need it for our sauce later!

  2. Meanwhile, prep the garlic and shallot by mincing them small and set aside. Chop the parsley for topping at this time as well, if you choose it. Don’t serve with dried parsley, only fresh.

  3. In a medium to large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic and shallot and stir until fragrant, about a minute.

  4. Add the smoked paprika and dried oregano. Stir to coat. It’ll smell goooooood. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine and let it lightly bubble for about a minute.

  5. Add the vodka and whisk in to create an even mixture. Let simmer for about 3 minutes or until it almost seems like a lot of the vodka has disappeared. It hasn’t! It’s just left its yummy flavor.

  6. Whisk in the half and half and stir until it’s a consistent color. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss in the pasta and stir to combine. Once combined, turn the heat to medium low, and sprinkle on the parmesan cheese and add the reserved 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water.

  7. Once it’s all combined and saucy, turn off the heat and serve warm and right away, topped with more parmesan if desired, some fresh parsley, and fresh cracked black pepper. Enjoy!