Penne alla Vodka with Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (about 450g) penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup (240ml) vodka
  • 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (about 50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard:

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Penne:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, chopped thyme leaves, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Make the Vodka Sauce:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
    • Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
    • Pour in the vodka and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Penne and Sauce:
    • Add the cooked penne to the vodka sauce, tossing until the pasta is well-coated.
  5. Serve:
    • Plate the Penne alla Vodka and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
    • Drizzle the Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard over the dish.
    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  6. Nutrition Facts:
    • (Note: Nutrition facts can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. The values provided here are approximate.)
    • Serving Size: 1 cup
    • Calories: 400
    • Total Fat: 15g
      • Saturated Fat: 8g
      • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Cholesterol: 40mg
    • Sodium: 450mg
    • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
      • Dietary Fiber: 4g
      • Sugars: 8g
    • Protein: 10g

Enjoy your delicious Penne alla Vodka with the delightful twist of Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard!