Penne With Sun-Dried Tomato Vodka Sauce

• diced tomatoes1 can
• vodka↗1⁄2 cup
• olive oil↗2 tablespoons
• onion↗1

  chopped fine

• sun-dried tomato↗1⁄4 cup

  packed in oil, rinsed, patted dry and minced

• garlic cloves↗2

  minced

• italian seasoning↗1⁄4 - 1⁄2 teaspoon
• red pepper flakes↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• salt and pepper
• heavy cream↗1⁄2 cup
• penne or fusilli↗1 lb

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Bring 4 quarts water to boil in a large pot. Meanwhile, process half of tomatoes in food processor until smooth. Transfer to bowl. Stir in vodka and remaining tomatoes.

2. 2

   Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add onion and sun-dried tomatoes and cook until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, red pepper flakes and italian seasoning and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in tomato-vodka mixture and 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer until slightly thickened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add cream and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, add 1 tablespoon salt and pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, drain pasta, and return to pot. Add sauce and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper. Serve.