Creamy Vodka Rigatoni with Prosciutto and Peas
Indulge in this rich and flavorful creamy vodka rigatoni, where succulent prosciutto pairs perfectly with vibrant green peas in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. Enhanced with a splash of vodka for depth, this delectable dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a quick meal ready in under 15 minutes. Serve it hot, topped with freshly grated Pecorino Romano and basil for an authentic Italian experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special gatherings, it captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Mangia!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crushed tomatoes with added puree
28 ounces (canned)
Butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (extra virgin)
Prosciutto
2 ounces (chopped)
Garlic
2 cloves (chopped)
Red onion
1 small (chopped)
Red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon (crushed)
Salt
to taste
Black pepper
to taste
Heavy cream
1 cup
Pecorino Romano cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Vodka
1/4 cup
Frozen green peas
1 cup
Fresh basil
4 leaves (shredded)
Rigatoni pasta
1 pound (cooked)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped prosciutto, minced garlic, and chopped red onion, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the garlic is lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
2
Stir in the red pepper flakes, then add the crushed tomatoes, vodka, and frozen green peas. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix in the shredded basil and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.
3
Reduce the heat to low and incorporate the heavy cream and Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
4
Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water if needed, and add the hot pasta to the sauce. Toss well to combine and ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
5
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh basil on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Vodka Rigatoni with Prosciutto and Peas?
It is a rich and flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring rigatoni in a creamy tomato and vodka sauce, enhanced with salty prosciutto and sweet green peas.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This quick meal is designed to be ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of rigatoni pasta, which is perfect for holding onto the thick, creamy sauce.
What are the main ingredients for the sauce base?
The base is made from butter, extra virgin olive oil, chopped prosciutto, minced garlic, and chopped red onion.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
You should use 28 ounces of canned crushed tomatoes with added puree.
Is there alcohol in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 cup of vodka which adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
What type of cream is required?
The recipe uses 1 cup of heavy cream to achieve its luscious and creamy texture.
What cheese is recommended for this dish?
Pecorino Romano cheese is used both in the sauce and as a garnish for an authentic Italian taste.
How do I prepare the prosciutto?
The 2 ounces of prosciutto should be chopped and sautéed with the garlic and onions until the onions are translucent.
Are the peas fresh or frozen?
The recipe uses 1 cup of frozen green peas, which are added directly to the sauce to simmer.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat from the inclusion of 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
How should I cook the rigatoni?
Cook the rigatoni in boiling water according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.
When do I add the fresh basil?
Shredded basil is mixed into the sauce while it simmers, and extra is used as a garnish before serving.
How long should the sauce simmer?
After adding the tomatoes, vodka, and peas, the sauce should simmer for about 10 minutes.
Can I substitute the red onion?
While the recipe calls for red onion, you can use yellow or white onion if needed for a similar flavor profile.
Do I need to save pasta water?
Yes, it is recommended to reserve a little pasta water when draining to help adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
What is the first step in making the sauce?
The first step is heating butter and olive oil in a large skillet to sauté the prosciutto, garlic, and red onion.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cloves of chopped garlic.
Is extra virgin olive oil necessary?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor, used in combination with butter.
What does the vodka do for the sauce?
The vodka acts as an emulsifier and enhances the aroma and depth of the tomato and cream mixture.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, while rigatoni is preferred, other tubular shapes like penne or ziti would also work well with this sauce.
How do I ensure the cheese melts properly?
Reduce the heat to low before adding the Pecorino Romano and stir constantly until it is fully incorporated and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be reheated, though you may need a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce when warming it back up.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve it immediately while hot, topped with additional freshly grated Pecorino Romano and fresh basil.
How much butter is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Can I make this vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto; the sauce will still be delicious and creamy.
Does the recipe use salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and black pepper are added to taste during the simmering of the tomato sauce.
What makes this 'comfort food'?
The combination of heavy cream, rich cheese, and hearty pasta creates a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
While canned crushed tomatoes provide the specific texture for this 15-minute meal, you could use fresh if they are cooked down significantly.
Is this an authentic Italian recipe?
It captures the essence of Italian comfort food using traditional ingredients like prosciutto, basil, and Pecorino Romano.