Penne alla Vodka

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Serves 2-3

Kosher salt, to taste

1/2 lb penne

!/8 cup olive oil

1/2 tsp crushed red chile flakes

6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced lengthwise

1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (I used fire-roasted tomatoes.)

1/8 cup vodka

3/8 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup parmesan

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Finely chopped parsley, to garnish

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; add penne and cook, stirring, until al dente, about 11 minutes.

Heat oil in a 6-quart saucepan over medium heat add chile flakes and garlic, and cook, stirring and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add tomatoes and vodka flakes and cook, stirring until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. Stir in cream and cheese, season with salt and pepper, and stir until smooth. Drain pasta, and transfer to pan with sauce; toss pasta with sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with parsley.