When comfort food meets healthy eating, magic happens in the kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Healthy Penne Alla Vodka recipe. This lighter take on the classic Italian-American favorite delivers all the creamy, tomato-rich flavor you crave, but with smart swaps that make it a dish you can feel good about enjoying regularly.
Traditional vodka sauce is notorious for its heavy cream and butter, but this version proves you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for nutrition. The sauce still achieves that signature pink hue and velvety texture, while cutting back on calories and adding nutrients that make this pasta dish a weeknight winner.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Lighter than traditional vodka sauce but still incredibly creamy and satisfying
- Balanced flavor profile with a hint of heat that isn’t overwhelming
- Versatile base recipe that can be customized with protein or vegetables
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry penne pasta
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup cottage cheese (4% milkfat recommended)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons vodka (or ½ teaspoon white wine vinegar)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (or ¼ cup fresh chopped)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Blend crushed tomatoes and cottage cheese until smooth and creamy pink. Set aside.
- Bring large pot of water to boil for pasta.
- Heat olive oil in pan over medium heat. Cook onions and garlic 3-5 minutes until translucent.
- Add vodka to aromatics and cook until alcohol smell dissipates, about 5 minutes.
- Add tomato-cheese mixture, seasonings, and simmer on medium heat.
- Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
- Remove sauce from heat. Add pasta, parmesan, and reserved water. Stir until smooth and well-coated.
Tips & Variations
- For added protein, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans
- Boost the vegetable content by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas
- If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth plus 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- For an even creamier texture without adding calories, blend half the tomato sauce before adding the Greek yogurt
- Make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
- To prep ahead, make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store in the refrigerator
Serving Suggestions
This healthy penne alla vodka pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the greens complements the richness of the pasta dish. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccolini.
If you’re entertaining, start the meal with a light antipasto platter and finish with a small scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing palate cleanser that won’t weigh you down after this satisfying main course.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess
- The sauce is ready when it turns a beautiful coral-pink color
- For the best flavor, use good quality canned tomatoes – San Marzano if possible
FAQs
Does the alcohol cook out of vodka sauce?
Yes, when the vodka simmers for several minutes, the alcohol evaporates, leaving just the flavor behind. If you’re concerned, you can extend the simmering time to ensure all alcohol is cooked off.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and combine with the reheated sauce.
Why use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream?
Greek yogurt provides the creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to heavy cream but with significantly less fat and calories, plus added protein.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes a modest amount of red pepper flakes for a gentle warmth. You can adjust the quantity up or down based on your preference for heat.
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