Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary pasta dish into an extraordinary gourmet masterpiece! This Penne Ala Vodka with Smoked Salmon is not just a recipe—it's a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a world of creamy, smoky decadence. Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked pasta draped in a silky vodka cream sauce, punctuated with luxurious smoked salmon and a hint of fresh dill. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, prepare the vodka sauce. In a large skillet, heat a medium-high flame and carefully add vodka. Allow vodka to simmer and reduce by half, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until sauce begins to thicken.
- Drain cooked pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return pasta to the pot.
- Fold chopped smoked salmon into the vodka cream sauce, allowing it to warm gently for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour sauce over pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Stir gently to coat pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring to incorporate. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta in individual serving bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped dill for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook pasta just until al dente—it continues cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Vodka Reduction: Allow the vodka to simmer and reduce to mellow its sharp alcohol flavor and concentrate its essence.
- Cream Sauce Technique: Add cream slowly and stir continuously to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky texture.
- Salmon Selection: Choose high-quality, cold-smoked salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Fresh Herb Magic: The fresh dill is not just a garnish—it adds a bright, aromatic finish that complements the rich sauce.
- Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after preparation, to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 110mg
