Penne alla vodka pasta

Ingredients:

• 450 g penne pasta (feathers)
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tbsp. l. olive oil
• 1 cup of vodka
• 1 can (400 g) of tomato puree or tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 generous pinch red pepper flakes, plus more as needed
• 1/4 - 1/2 tsp salt
• Grated Parmesan, for serving

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil and sauté the garlic and onion until soft. Pour in the vodka, being careful if cooking over an open flame (remove the pan from the heat before adding the vodka).
3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then pour in the tomato puree. Stir, then reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream. Stir and cook at a very low simmer. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce; stir.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and additional red pepper flakes, if desired.